CV conventions in South Korea

These 2 countries follow broadly the same CV conventions: a photo is common, date of birth is usually included, 1–2 pages, and “references on request” is enough. The table below shows where individual countries differ.

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At a glance

CV conventions in South Korea
What it is called	이력서 (usually written in Korean or English)
Length	1–2 pages
Paper size	A4
Layout	Tabular, dates in a left column
Order	Most recent first
Dates	Month and year (e.g. Mar 2023)
Photo	Usually included
Date of birth	Usually included
Nationality	Optional
Marital status	Usually left out
Right to work / visa status	Optional
Military service	Usually included
References	“References available on request” is fine
Explain gaps longer than	6 months

Tips

The Fair Hiring Procedure Act bars employers with 30+ staff from requesting appearance, birthplace, marital status or family details unless the job needs them; a photo is still often attached, while public institutions use “blind hiring” without one.
Men usually state military service.
A self-introduction (자기소개서) is usually a separate document.

Countries in this group

Country	Called	Usual language	Paper	Local differences
North Korea	이력서	Korean	A4
South Korea	이력서	Korean	A4

Other regions

Guidance checked October 2026. General information for most employers, not legal or immigration advice. A job advert’s own instructions always come first. CV Atlas is not affiliated with any regulator or professional body named.