Voice Phishing
Voice Phishing Offenses & Immigration Consequences in Korea
Korea has sharply increased enforcement against foreign nationals involved in voice phishing (보이스피싱) schemes. Participation at any level — including acting as a cash-out mule — can constitute criminal co-conspiracy and trigger serious immigration consequences.
Involvement in Voice Phishing and Immigration Consequences
Korea's Act on Special Cases Concerning Prevention of Telecommunication-Based Financial Fraud and the Criminal Act apply. Any confirmed involvement triggers criminal liability and an immigration offense review.
- All roles (call center operators, cash withdrawers, money transferrers): Criminal co-conspirator liability
- Organizers or leaders: Aggravated punishment + high forced departure risk
- Minor participation (e.g., money delivery): Suspended sentence possible, but still subject to immigration review
- Repeat offense or organized crime involvement: Risk of permanent re-entry ban
The Offense Review Process
After criminal disposition for voice phishing, an immigration offense review is initiated.
- Police/prosecutor investigation and criminal disposition
- Immigration Office notified for offense review
- Officer interview (role in scheme, scale of damages, recidivism risk)
- Decision: ① Continue stay ② Departure recommendation ③ Forced departure
How Sunshine Can Help
Our office provides:
- Representation and written opinion at the immigration offense review
- Preparation of documents demonstrating minor role in the scheme
- Submission of evidence of victim restitution as a mitigating factor
- Self-reporting strategy to reduce disposition severity
선샤인행정사사무소
서울 중구 퇴계로 324, 3층 · +82-2-363-2251
Frequently Asked Questions
I only received money transfers — am I still guilty?
Yes. Receiving and transferring funds is one of the core roles in a voice phishing scheme and is treated as criminal co-conspiracy.
Will my family visa be affected?
The penalty primarily affects the person convicted. However, a visa cancellation may indirectly affect accompanying family members' residency status.
Can I negotiate a reduced immigration penalty?
Yes. At the offense review stage, demonstrating a minor role, evidence of restitution, and cooperation with authorities can reduce the severity of the disposition.
This page provides general legal information only and does not constitute legal advice.