Design Manager Salary in Seoul, South Korea

Seoul's tech corridor includes many design professionals. Mid‑level design managers earn ₩64,000,000 per year.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

₩42,000,000 to ₩54,000,000

Average (per year)

₩48,000,000

Recent graduates work at large conglomerates or design agencies. Salaries depend on various factors.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

₩55,000,000 to ₩73,000,000

Average (per year)

₩64,000,000

Experienced managers lead small teams, contributing to major tech and manufacturing projects.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

₩75,000,000 to ₩98,000,000

Average (per year)

₩86,000,000

Veterans oversee multiple departments or large-scale design operations at Samsung, LG, or Hyundai.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

₩100,000,000+

Directors manage cross-functional teams or set design strategy for companies.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

₩22000 - ₩33000

per hour

Mid-level

₩34000 - ₩47000

per hour

Senior

₩48000 - ₩65000

per hour

Compared with the national median of roughly ₩55 million, Seoul pays about fifteen percent more. A salary gap is observed between regions.