Deposit Amount for Temporary Release: What to Expect

Learn about the deposit requirements for temporary release from immigration detention in Korea, including minimum amounts and refund conditions.

 


Kababayan, following up on our last article about temporary release, let's talk about something very practical that families always ask me about — the deposit, or 보증금, required for temporary release to be granted.

The deposit works similarly to a security bond. It's meant to guarantee that the released person will follow the conditions set by the immigration office, such as appearing for future appointments or hearings related to their case, and not disappearing while their case is still ongoing.

Under the regulations, there's a minimum deposit amount required, and the exact amount can depend on several factors — the specifics of the case, the person's circumstances, and the assessment made by the immigration office reviewing the request. It's not a fixed, one-size-fits-all number, so the amount can vary from case to case.

If the person keeps to all the conditions of their temporary release — including reporting as required and not violating any travel restrictions — the deposit is generally refunded once it's no longer needed, such as when the case is resolved or when the person is required to report back to custody as scheduled.

However, if the conditions are violated — for example, if the person fails to report as required or attempts to flee — the deposit can be forfeited, and the temporary release itself can be revoked, which we'll cover in more detail in a later article.

I know that gathering this kind of money on short notice can be incredibly stressful for a family, especially if you're already dealing with lost income because a loved one isn't able to work while detained. My advice is to reach out to your community, to trusted organizations, or to people you know who might be able to help — many of us here in Chungju have supported each other through situations exactly like this.

In the next article, we'll talk about humanitarian temporary release, which applies in situations where the usual rules might be adjusted due to special circumstances.

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:

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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.