If you do not speak Korean, a meeting with a Korean lawyer, landlord or business partner can go wrong on a single word. A legal interpreter makes sure both sides hear exactly what was said. Here is what to know before you book one.
Where you need a legal interpreter
- Consultations at Korean law firms: visas, labor, real estate, company setup, disputes
- Contract negotiations and signing meetings
- Lease and deposit discussions with landlords and real estate agents
- Notary office visits
Notary offices require an interpreter
Under Article 28 of Korea's Notary Public Act, when the person requesting a notarial deed does not understand Korean, the notary must use an interpreter. Article 33 says the interpreter is chosen by that person or their agent. In practice this means you bring your own interpreter. Ask the notary office in advance which ID the interpreter should bring.
Court hearings are different
Interpretation inside a Korean courtroom is done by interpreters on each court's official list, and the court arranges it. Private interpreters like us cover everything outside the courtroom: lawyer meetings, negotiations and notary visits.
What an interpreter will not do
Interpreters are not lawyers. They will not tell you whether to sign or which option is better. They interpret your questions to your lawyer and the answers back to you, word for word.
How to prepare
- Send the contract draft or letters you will discuss
- List the people attending and their roles
- Ask for a signed confidentiality agreement if you need one
- If the contract has Korean and English versions, check which language prevails and make sure what you agreed appears in that version
How to book
SIC Seoul Interpreting Center assigns an interpreter in about 30 minutes on average, 24 hours a day. Call or text us with the date, place and type of meeting.