Design Director Salary in South Korea
Design directors work in South Korea's tech hubs. The median salary is ₩54 million per year. Companies like Samsung, Naver, and gaming studios drive demand for visual leadership.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
₩38,000,000 to ₩47,000,000
Average (per year)
₩43,000,000
Small agencies and local firms hire entry-level directors.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
₩48,000,000 to ₩61,000,000
Average (per year)
₩54,000,000
Regional businesses and municipal offices employ design directors with mid-range experience.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
₩61,000,000 to ₩75,000,000
Average (per year)
₩68,000,000
Larger teams are led by senior-level directors in local manufacturing and public sector organizations.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
₩75,000,000+
Higher salaries are earned by principal directors working with regional conglomerates or government commissions.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
₩22000 - ₩29000
per hour
Mid-level
₩29000 - ₩37000
per hour
Senior
₩37000 - ₩45000
per hour
Market Overview
Seoul has a high cost of living. Start‑ups in Busan hire design directors.