Why Do Koreans Use Stamps?

Quick Summary

• A Korean stamp is called dojang or ingam, used for authentication rather than postage.
• Many Koreans use it for real estate contracts, banking transactions, and business agreements.
• Korean stamps can cost from ten to thousand dollars depending on materials and designs.

When I registered a business in Seoul back in 2013, the first thing I got was my own stamp. One with my name on it and another with my business name.

Since my budget was tight, I went for an affordable one under $20 from a small stamp shop on the street. But holding it in my hands made me feel like a real entrepreneur (and a big girl)!

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir from South Korea, a personalized Korean stamp could be the perfect gift for yourself or your loved ones back home.

It takes as little as 10 minutes to have your name engraved in Korean!

What Is a Korean Stamp Called?

A Korean stamp is called dojang (도장) or ingam (인감).

It’s used for authentication rather than postage, which will be called differently in this case as woopyo (우표).

These personal and corporate seals have been an important part of Korean documentation for centuries.

Unlike in Western countries, where signatures are the norm, Koreans rely on these stamps to formalize contracts, verify identity, and approve official documents.

Traditionally, Korean stamps were square-shaped, but circular stamps became more popular during the Japanese colonial period. Today, circular stamps are standard for personal use, while square ones are reserved for corporate or artistic purposes.

Why Do Koreans Use Stamps Instead of Signatures?

Koreans use stamps instead of signatures mainly to verify identity and prevent fraud.

A stamp carries legal weight and serves as undeniable proof of an individual’s or organization’s intent.

To be fair, modern technology has introduced digital signatures and biometric authentication to Korea. But many of us still value physical stamps in official transactions.

A document’s legal validity in Korea often depends on a properly stamped seal.

Even though signatures are used in informal settings, important documents often require the physical imprint of a stamp. Especially for real estate contracts, banking transactions, and business agreements.

Without a proper stamp, certain contracts may not be legally enforceable.

How Important Are Stamps in Korean Life?

Regardless of technological advancements, owning a personal stamp is still important in Korea.

A properly registered stamp is often needed for things like opening a bank account or signing legal documents.

Also, companies and government offices often require a ganin (간인) or seal between pages, which is applied across multiple pages of a document to prevent fraud or alteration after stamping.

What Are the Types of Korean Stamps?

Korean stamps come in many forms, and each has a specific purpose.

1. Makdojang (막도장): Basic Personal Stamps

Makdojang is a mass-produced, inexpensive stamp that anyone can buy and use for informal purposes.

It’s still useful for casual document stamping, but it doesn’t carry legal authority like registered seals.

2. Ingam Dojang (인감도장): Registered Seal

Ingam dojang is officially registered with a government office and is used for high-stakes transactions like real estate purchases, business contracts, and legal documents.

Losing an ingam dojang can lead to serious legal and financial consequences because it can be used to fraudulently sign contracts on behalf of the owner.

3. Beobin Ingam (법인인감): Corporate Seal

Companies and organizations have their own registered corporate stamps.

These serve as the official signatures for legal documents, contracts, and government filings.

4. Jikin (직인): Official Business Stamps

Jikin is used by companies, government agencies, and institutions.

These stamps authorize documents like invoices, certifications, and official letters.

How Much Are Korean Stamps?

Korean stamps vary widely in price and quality.

Basic rubber or wooden stamps are affordable at under $20.

But custom-made seals carved from materials like jade, ivory, or precious metals can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars.

The most expensive stamps often feature intricate designs, hand-carved lettering, or religious or symbolic engravings along the edges.

What Happens If Someone Uses Your Stamp?

If someone gains unauthorized access to your registered seal, they could potentially sign contracts, take out loans, or transfer property on your behalf.

To prevent fraud, Korean authorities require a certificate of authenticity (ingam jeungmyeongseo) whenever a registered stamp is used for important transactions.

But don’t worry! Issuing the certificate requires both an identity check and fingerprint verification to prevent misuse. So, they can catch the culprit quickly.

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Younger Koreans are moving away from using physical stamps. But they’re still important, being more than just office supplies.

When you visit or live in Korea, feel free to get one customized with your name on it!