Restaurant & Food Service License in Korea — 2026 Complete Guide

1. Types of Food Service Business

• General restaurant (일반음식점): dine-in meals and alcohol
• Simple food service (휴게음식점): light meals and non-alcoholic beverages (cafés, bakeries, fast food)
• Bar (단란주점/유흥주점): higher license tier for establishments with performances or adult entertainment

2. Who Needs a License?

Any business selling food or beverages for on-site consumption in Korea must obtain a food service business license from the local government (시/군/구청) under the Food Sanitation Act.

3. Facility Requirements

• Kitchen must have adequate ventilation and grease traps
• Separate food preparation and dishwashing areas
• Refrigeration equipment for perishables
• Restrooms (can be shared in some cases)
• Fire safety compliance

4. Food Hygiene Manager

• At least one designated food hygiene manager (식품위생관리책임자) required
• Must complete food hygiene training (6 hours initial, 3 hours every 2 years renewal)
• In practice, business owner often takes this role

5. Required Documents

• Food service business registration application
• Facility floor plan showing kitchen layout
• Building use confirmation (for food service)
• Fire safety inspection certificate
• Food hygiene manager training certificate
• Business registration certificate

6. Application Procedure

1. Complete food hygiene training
2. Submit application to local district office (구청)
3. Health/facility inspection
4. License issued (approx. 3–7 business days)
5. Post license prominently in the establishment