Officials said that if the current online notarial system is used, notarization can be issued without having to visit diplomatic missions. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, April 28 (Korea Bizwire) — The Ministry of Justice on Monday asked citizens to make use of an online notarial system instead of visiting government offices in person.
The initiative is part of government policy to maintain appropriate physical distancing to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.
The ministry explained that it has become difficult to receive notarization as more overseas Koreans are unable to visit overseas diplomatic offices due to the recent restriction on movement in some countries, including those in Europe and Southeast Asia.
Officials added that if the current online notarial system is used, notarization can be issued without having to visit diplomatic missions.
Notarization is a system that proves the existence of certain facts or legal relationships to preserve evidence about various transactions occurring in everyday life and to simplify the execution of rights by rights holders.
In order to use the online notarial system, which was introduced in 2018, users must access the website of the ministry’s electronic notarization system (enotary.moj.go.kr) with a computer or smartphone with a webcam attached.
After verifying one’s identity, one can conduct a real-time interview with a notary through a video conference to receive authentication.
On a different note, the ministry decided to allow limited access for attorneys to those incarcerated at detention centers and prisons, which had been suspended altogether, starting Monday.
Meetings between attorneys and inmates, which used to be held in a general reception room with a barrier installed, will also be available in smaller interview rooms as in the past.
Lawyers and inmates will be required to have their temperature checked before the meeting, and they will also have to wear masks.
D. M. Park (dmpark@koreabizwire.com)
