U.S. nationals, Korean citizens and former Korean citizens who wish to apply for a
refund of Korean contributions (i.e., a lump-sum benefit) must file Korean application
form KOR/USA 1 with their local SSA field office (FO). This is the same application
form that is used to apply for other Korean benefits (see GN 01741.215). They must
also submit proof of their citizenship (e.g., a U.S. passport).
The FO forwards the KOR/USA 1 and proof of citizenship to the Division of International
Operations (DIO) in Baltimore.
DIO forwards the application form and proof of citizenship to the Korean National
Pension Corporation (NPC) and sends a notice to the applicant advising the applicant
that the application form has been sent to the NPC.
The NPC then arranges for a refund of the contributions directly to the individual.