Exceptional Renunciation of Korean Nationality – Acceptance to US Naval Academy
Since the implementation of Korea’s Exceptional Nationality Renunciation Permit System on October 1, 2022, Pureum Law Office has successfully handled numerous cases on behalf of clients seeking to renounce their Korean nationality beyond the usual legal deadline. This post details a recent success story regarding Exceptional Renunciation of Korean Nationality, which is also known as Special Renunciation of Korean Nationality.
Key Requirement 1) No “Serious Negligence” in Missing Deadline
Under the nation’s laws, male dual nationals must renounce their South Korean nationality by March 31st of the year in which they turn 18 — under “international age” standards, not traditional Korean age. Failing to meet this deadline typically results in the imposition of military service obligations—unless it can be proven that the failure occurred without “serious negligence.”
In this particular case, the client — having lived in the United States for most of his life — was unaware of the renunciation deadline. Simply claiming ignorance is insufficient, however, with the client initially struggling to provide concrete evidence or a clear explanation to show a absence of serious negligence.
PLO Head Attorney Simon Lee followed this up with detailed questioning of the client to better explain his background and life circumstances. Based on the responses, we prepared a thorough legal opinion letter demonstrating that the client lacked access to relevant legal information and acted in good faith. This persuasive documentation became a key element in the case.
Key Requirement 2) Significant Restriction on Career Choice Overseas
Another critical requirement under the exceptional renunciation system is showing that the inability to renounce Korean nationality imposes a serious limitation on the client’s career prospects abroad.
In this case, the client had gained admission to the United States Naval Academy, which has strict eligibility rules prohibiting dual nationals from commissioning. PLO conducted extensive legal and policy research to demonstrate that US military academies require sole allegiance and excludes dual nationals. These findings were compiled and submitted with the application.
Conclusion: Renunciation Granted Before Age 38
Thanks to this multi-faceted approach, the client successfully received approval to renounce his Korean nationality before the age of 38, as allowed under the exceptional permit system. He is now able to pursue a US military career without any legal conflict or limitations due to Korean nationality or conscription laws.
Why Choose PLO?
The exceptional nationality renunciation system is highly discretionary and requires more than just basic paperwork. The PLO team specializes in crafting personalized legal arguments, gathering supporting evidence, and advocating effectively before Korea’s Ministry of Justice.
Facing Korean nationality or military service complications?
Contact us today so we can can help you navigate this complex process.
