When preparing to study abroad, submitting transcripts or diplomas in Korean often means they are not recognized overseas. Foreign schools and institutions do not accept Korean-language documents directly, so they must be translated into the local language and certified at a notary office to take official effect. Below is how Apostille Korea handles certified translation, apostille, and embassy legalization remotely, in one stop.
What is certified translation?
Certified translation is the procedure of translating a Korean-issued document into a foreign language and then officially confirming, through a notary office, that the translation is accurate. Through this step a translation — which would otherwise be a private document — gains a legal status equivalent to a public document, so it is recognized as official abroad. Translation should be performed by a professional translator who can demonstrate qualifications, not simply someone with language ability, and the notary makes the final confirmation of accuracy.
When do you need it?
- Submitting admission documents to an overseas university or graduate school
- Submitting career and academic evidence for overseas employment
- Submitting documents for an overseas visa or permanent residence
- Submitting marriage-related documents for international marriage
- Submitting documents for overseas company setup or account opening
- Documents needing translation before an apostille or embassy legalization
Key documents
| Document type | Main purpose |
|---|---|
| Diploma, degree certificate | Overseas admission, employment, qualification recognition |
| Transcript | Overseas university admission screening |
| Career certificate, certificate of employment | Overseas employment, visa application |
| Family relation certificate, marriage certificate | International marriage, visa, permanent residence |
| Criminal investigation record certificate | Work visa, permanent residence screening |
The process, step by step
- Issue the original documentObtain accurate originals from the school, court, or public authority.
- Professional translationA qualified professional translator translates accurately into the local language.
- Commissioned certified translationAt a notary office, the notary confirms the translation is accurate to complete the certified translation.
- Apostille or embassy legalization (if required)Add an apostille or embassy legalization depending on the receiving country.
- Final submissionSubmit the completed documents to the relevant overseas institution.
How to apply with Apostille Korea
You can request a consultation through the Apostille Korea website, with immediate enquiries available through our chat channels. In-house professional translators handle the work and we manage the full flow online.
Frequently asked questions
What is certified translation?
It is the procedure of translating a Korean-issued document into a foreign language and then officially confirming, through a notary office, that the translation is accurate. The translation gains a legal status equivalent to a public document, so it is recognized as official abroad.
Why is certified translation needed for study documents?
Foreign schools and institutions do not accept Korean-language documents directly. Diplomas, transcripts, and similar Korean documents must be translated into the local language and notarized to take official effect abroad.
Which documents can be certified-translated?
Diplomas, transcripts, degree certificates, enrollment certificates, career certificates, family relation certificates, marriage certificates, criminal investigation record certificates, powers of attorney, and any Korean document required overseas.
What is the certified translation procedure?
After the original is issued, a professional translator translates into the local language, and the notary office certifies the accuracy through commissioned notarization. An apostille or embassy legalization is added if needed.
Do I need certified translation and an apostille together?
It depends on the receiving country and body. For an apostille member, you add an apostille after certified translation; for a non-member, embassy legalization is required. Apostille Korea will advise the exact requirements.
Why Apostille Korea
- In-house translators — professional translators across English, Japanese, Chinese, and more, translating accurately.
- One-stop service — issuance support, certified translation, and apostille handled together.
- Fully remote — apply online and receive your documents with no in-person visit.
- Accurate guidance — tailored advice analyzing each country's and body's requirements.