Foreign Broker Arrested for Falsifying Documents to Extend Foreigners' Stay in South Korea
Incheon Immigration Office has apprehended a foreign broker, identified as a 41-year-old man from Uzbekistan, for allegedly creating false documents to help foreigners extend their stay in South Korea. The authorities reported on May 8 that the suspect, referred to as A, was arrested and transferred to the prosecution for violating immigration laws.
Between September 2022 and August 2023, A is accused of producing fraudulent documents on 25 occasions, assisting 17 foreigners in extending their stay while collecting 7.5 million won in fees. A, along with an accomplice known as B, reportedly recruited foreigners needing extensions through social media. They created fake export declaration certificates, making it appear as though the foreigners were involved in container shipping operations, and also fabricated rental agreements to verify their residence in South Korea.
Immigration authorities tracked A and B after discovering they had left the country. A was apprehended upon his return to Incheon International Airport on April 24. Of the 17 foreigners who extended their stay using A's fraudulent documents, 10 have been ordered to leave the country, while efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining seven.
An official from the Incheon Immigration Office stated that they believe there may be more similar cases involving false documents and plan to expand their investigation to ensure strict enforcement of immigration laws.