To get a coffee shop license in South Korea, decide the correct permit first, then pass a health inspection and register your business number. Most cafés use the Rest Food Service permit (휴게음식점영업); choose General Restaurant (일반음식점) only if you’ll cook meals or sell alcohol, and Bakery (제과점영업) if you’ll produce bread/pastry on site. Before applying, verify the unit’s zoning/use (neighborhood living/commercial) and that your lease allows food service, then build to code: washable floors and walls, a dedicated handwash sink with running water and soap, separate sinks for utensils and ingredients, adequate ventilation, pest-proofing, food-grade refrigerators with thermometers, covered waste bins, and on-site or building-access toilets. Complete the operator’s food sanitation training (about 3 hours) via an authorized body. Apply at your district Public Health Center with ID, lease, floor plan, equipment list, business name, and training certificate; pay the fee and schedule inspection. After approval, register your Business Registration Number with the National Tax Service (Hometax or local office) within 20 days. Display prices and no‑smoking signage, contract food‑waste collection, and obtain background‑music rights if used. Foreign owners need a status permitting business (e.g., D‑8 with ≥KRW 100M investment, F‑2/F‑5/F‑6). Typical timeline: 1–3 weeks. Budget for minor fees.
