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Accompanying Investigation vs Visit Investigation: What's the Difference?

Learn the difference between 동행조사 and 방문조사

 


In my last article, we talked about what "investigation" means under immigration law. Now I want to explain the two specific ways it can happen: 동행조사 and 방문조사.

First, 동행조사 (accompanying investigation) — this is when an immigration officer takes you along with them to a specific location, usually the immigration office itself, to be questioned and investigated there. Typically, you would first receive a notice or summons before being accompanied like this.

Second, 방문조사 (visit investigation) — this is when immigration officials come to you instead, for example at your workplace or your home, to conduct the investigation there. This one tends to happen more suddenly compared to 동행조사.

Why does the difference matter? Because your rights and the process itself can differ depending on which type of investigation is being done. With 방문조사, for instance, there are real questions about whether a warrant (영장) is required before officers can enter a location — and this is actually one of the most debated topics in Korean immigration law.

There have even been court cases trying to clarify how these rules should be applied without violating a person's rights — because even as foreigners, we still have basic human rights that deserve to be respected.

My advice if you ever find yourself subject to either type of investigation: stay calm, don't run or hide (because this alone can turn into a much bigger problem), and if an immigration officer is with you, calmly ask what the reason for the investigation is and what happens next.

In the next article, I'll talk about when an investigation is actually considered finished, and what the next step looks like after that.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. If you have a specific case, please consult a lawyer or the immigration office directly.


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About the Author



English Instructor in South Korea | 22 Years of Teaching Experience

Majella Pagayon is the founder of Pinoy Sarang, a community platform dedicated to helping Filipinos navigate life, work, education, and immigration in South Korea. She regularly writes practical guides, safety tips, and educational resources for Filipinos living and working abroad.

Connect with Majella:

• Facebook Page: Chungju Community - Pinoy Sarang
• YouTube: Pinoy Sarang
• Website: www.pinoysarang.com

I am Majella, an English Instructor with nearly 22 years of teaching experience in South Korea. Based in Chungju, I am the founder of Pinoy Sarang and Hiraya Filipina Korea. My mission is to bridge the gap between traditional teaching and the digital business world, helping others find their path to success.