Quick Certified Translation Guide for Malaysia <> Korea (2025)
Introduction
If you are dealing with cross-border documentation between Malaysia and Korea—whether for education, employment, or legal matters—you will likely need certified translations. Navigating the certification requirements and ensuring that your documents are accepted by the relevant authorities can feel overwhelming. This quick guide summarizes the essential points you need to know to get your documents properly translated, notarized, and authenticated in 2025.
Understanding Certified Translations
A certified translation is usually accompanied by a statement (affidavit) or endorsement from an authorized party (such as a notary public or consular officer) confirming that the translated text is accurate and true to the original. The process ensures that the receiving institution—be it in Malaysia or Korea—trusts the authenticity of the translation.
Key Points:
The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kuala Lumpur does not provide translation services [1].
You, as the applicant, are fully responsible for preparing your translation or hiring a qualified translator.
An affidavit or endorsement may be required, indicating that the person who prepared the translation swears to its accuracy.
Documents from Korea to Be Used in Malaysia
If your original document is from Korea (e.g., academic certificates, transcripts, or other government-issued papers) and you need to use it in Malaysia, be aware of the following:
Authentication from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (ROK)
First, get the document authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Republic of Korea.
Notarization by the Embassy of Malaysia in Seoul
After receiving authentication from the Korean government, the document must be notarized by the Embassy of Malaysia in Seoul [2].
This step confirms that your document will be recognized by Malaysian authorities.
Translation Considerations
If your document is not in English or Bahasa Malaysia, you will likely need an English or Bahasa Malaysia translation.
Arrange for a certified translator, such as MYLegalTrans, or prepare your own translation and have it notarized if necessary.
Important: The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kuala Lumpur cannot notarize government documents originating from Korea [3].
Documents from Malaysia to Be Used in Korea
When original documents are from Malaysia (e.g., birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic records) and you need to use them in Korea, follow these steps:
Attestation by Wisma Putra (Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Before taking your documents to the Korean Embassy, visit the Consular Division of Wisma Putra to have them attested on all pages, or have an authorized representative, such as MYLegalTrans, request the attestation on behalf of you.
Notarization by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kuala Lumpur
After Wisma Putra’s attestation, bring the documents to the Korean Embassy for authentication, or have an authorized representative, such as MYLegalTrans, request the authentication on behalf of you [4].
This step confirms that the Embassy recognizes the signature and seal of Wisma Putra.
Translation Requirements
If the documents are not in Korean, a Korean translation will typically be needed for official use in Korea.
Be prepared to provide an affidavit on translation if required, swearing that the translation is accurate.
Affidavit on Translation: Acknowledgment of Signature
When you need the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kuala Lumpur to acknowledge your signature on an affidavit attesting to the accuracy of a translation:
Make an Appointment
The Embassy requires online appointments for notarial services [4].
Plan well in advance, as appointment slots can fill up quickly.
Bring Valid Identification
Present a valid passport or MyKad when you visit.
Sign in the Presence of a Consular Officer
Do not sign the affidavit beforehand. You must sign in front of the officer.
Languages Accepted
The officer should be able to understand the language of the document: typically Korean, English, or Bahasa Malaysia.
If the text is in any other language, a Certified or Sworn Translation is expected. Engage a Certified Translation Provider, such as MYLegalTrans, to assist you with Certified or Sworn Translation for documents not in Korean, English, or Bahasa Malaysia.
Fees and Processing Time
Fee: As of 2025, the fee for each notarized document is RM18 [5]. Payment can usually be made in cash or by credit/debit card.
Processing Time:
If you have fewer than five documents, same-day processing may be possible.
For six or more documents, expect a longer turnaround time [6].
Special Cases: Underage Applicants and School Documents
Underage Applicants
Underage applicants generally cannot apply for document notarization on their own.
A parent or legal guardian (or any adult with a legal authorization) must submit documents on their behalf.
Malaysian School Documents for Korean Nationals Returning to Korea
If you are a Korean national and need your Malaysian school documents (e.g., graduation certificates or transcripts) authenticated for use in Korea, ensure the documents are authenticated by the school authority on all pages.
The school must email the confirmation form to the Embassy before you submit the documents [7]. This process can take at least three to five working days.
Helpful Tips
Check Validity
Some documents (like police clearances) may have an expiration date. Ensure your documents are valid and up-to-date before notarizing or translating.
Keep Copies
Always keep certified copies of your original documents. Having duplicates can save you time if you need additional notarized copies.
Plan Ahead
The process can take several weeks or even months, especially if you need to coordinate between agencies in Malaysia and Korea.
Start the process as soon as you can to avoid last-minute complications.
Why MYLegalTrans is Your Ideal Partner for Korea Documentation
Navigating cross-border documentation between Malaysia and Korea can be complex, but MYLegalTrans turns this challenge into a seamless experience by offering highly specialized, integrated services. Here’s why MYLegalTrans stands superior when it comes to handling your Korea-related documentation:
Certified Translation
Expertise in Korean, English and Malay Languages: MYLegalTrans delivers certified translations between Korean, English and Malay, ensuring that your legal, academic, and personal documents are accurately rendered to meet the stringent requirements of Korean authorities.
100% Acceptance Guarantee: Each translation comes with an official certification stamp and a signed statement of accuracy, leading to no rejection by embassies, government agencies, or academic institutions. In case of rejection, we guarantee to amend the translations to meet the regulatory requirements of the receiving authorities.
Fast Turnaround: With the ability to complete straightforward translations in as little as 4 hours for single-page documents, MYLegalTrans ensures that time-sensitive submissions, such as visa or university applications, are never delayed. [8]
Notarisation
Licensed Notaries at Your Service: MYLegalTrans has in-house, fully accredited Notaries Public to provide prompt notarisation services that legally authenticate your documents and verify signatures.
Efficient Scheduling: Our streamlined process allows for same-day notarisation appointments, ensuring your documents are ready for subsequent legalisation steps without any unnecessary waiting periods. [9]
Wisma Putra Attestation
Seamless Government Liaison: MYLegalTrans expertly manages the attestation process with Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Wisma Putra), securing the official government stamp on every page of your document.
Reduced Bureaucracy: As an authorized representative of Wisma Putra, we eliminate the guesswork and reduce processing times by handling all paperwork and coordinating directly with Wisma Putra, ensuring your documents are fully prepared for embassy submission. [10]
Embassy Authentication
Final Step Expertise: MYLegalTrans navigates the complex protocols of embassy authentication by liaising with the appropriate Korean embassy or consulate.
Tailored for Korean Requirements: Our deep familiarity with embassy-specific guidelines guarantees that your documents receive the necessary consular stamps and are accepted for international use—whether for visa applications, academic admissions, or corporate filings.
Transparent Process: With clear, upfront pricing and a dedicated process that minimizes delays, we at MYLegalTrans ensures there are no surprises or additional hassles at the final step. [11]
In Summary:
By offering these comprehensive, expert services under one roof, MYLegalTrans eliminates the need for multiple providers and reduces the risk of errors or delays. Our integrated approach, combined with transparent pricing and a commitment to rapid processing, makes us the ideal partner for anyone navigating the intricate documentation process between Malaysia and Korea. Let MYLegalTrans handle the complexities, so you can focus on your next steps with confidence.
(For more detailed information, visit MYLegalTrans.)
Conclusion
Securing a certified translation between Malaysia and Korea in 2025 involves multiple steps: getting the original document authenticated by the right authorities, producing accurate translations, and obtaining notarization or endorsement at the Korean Embassy (or the Malaysian Embassy in Seoul, if applicable). By preparing your documents carefully and following the official procedures, you can ensure a smoother experience for your cross-border transactions—be it for academic, legal, or professional purposes.
Resources:
[1] - [6] Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Malaysia 2025a, DOCUMENT NOTARIZATION SERVICE. Available at: https://overseas.mofa.go.kr/my-en/brd/m_1912/view.do?seq=761496.
[7] Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Malaysia 2018, 2018 Korean Government Scholarship Program for Graduate Degrees. Available at: https://overseas.mofa.go.kr/my-en/brd/m_1921/view.do?seq=761202.
[8] MYLegalTrans, 2025, Certified Translation. Available at: https://www.mylegaltrans.com/services/certified-translation.
[9] MYLegalTrans, 2025, Notarisation. Available at: https://www.mylegaltrans.com/services/notarisation.
[10] MYLegalTrans, 2025, Wisma Putra Attestation. Available at: https://www.mylegaltrans.com/services/wisma-putra-attestation.
[11] MYLegalTrans, 2025, Embassy Authentication. Available at: https://www.mylegaltrans.com/services/embassy-authentication.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to official government sources or consult a qualified professional.