Korean National Pension & Severance Pay — Do You Owe U.S. Taxes?
TPT Tax Team
June 11, 2026
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Korean Income and U.S. Tax Obligations
U.S. permanent residents and citizens must report worldwide income to the IRS. This includes Korean national pension and severance pay received from Korea.
U.S.-Korea Tax Treaty
The U.S. and Korea have a tax treaty to prevent double taxation, so you generally will not pay full taxes in both countries.
National Pension (NPS)
Taxes withheld in Korea may be claimed as a Foreign Tax Credit on your U.S. return, offsetting your U.S. tax liability.
Severance Pay
Lump-sum severance payments must be reported as income in the year received. IRA rollover strategies may help reduce your tax burden.
For complex U.S.-Korea cross-border tax issues, consult with a TPT Tax professional today.
