I work for a company headquartered outside Korea that has invested in a Korean entity?

Yes, your situation is exactly what the D-8 visa (Corporate Investment) is designed for. The D-8 is for foreign nationals working at a Korean entity that has received foreign direct investment, with several sub-categories depending on company size and your role.

The most common path for your case. If the Korean entity has received at least 100 million won in foreign investment registered with KOTRA (via 외국인투자기업 registration), and you are a senior executive or essential specialist of the investing parent company, you can apply for D-8-1. This visa is typically valid for 2 years and renewable. Your spouse and children can join on F-3 visas.

Key requirements. The Korean entity must be registered as a foreign-invested company. You need an employment contract or assignment letter from your home company, business registration of the Korean entity, investment registration certificate, and proof of your role (typically executive or specialist).

If the Korean entity is small or the investment was made differently, alternatives include D-7 (intracompany transfer) for executive transfers from the parent company to a Korean branch or subsidiary, or E-7 (special activity) if your role is highly specialized and the Korean entity is just a regular Korean company.

Process. The Korean entity files for visa issuance certificate (사증발급인정서) at Korea Immigration. Once approved (typically 2 to 4 weeks), you apply for the actual visa at the Korean embassy or consulate near you, or in some cases convert from C-type to D-8 directly inside Korea if eligible. A licensed immigration consultant (행정사) is highly recommended for this process.