The Justice Ministry is toughening criteria for naturalization after an increasing number of abuses using fake identities have come to light. The ministry on Sunday made a pre-announcement of legislation to amend the relevant laws.

Foreigners seeking Korean citizenship will have to live here on permanent residency for a certain period before they can apply.

Foreigners married to Koreans have to stay married while living here for at least three years and have permanent residency for at least one year.