South Korea's Foreign Labor Policy: 10 Years On

Asia Insight – Season 2

With more than 70% of young South Koreans going on to further education, the country is facing a chronic shortage of manual workers in its medium and small sized factories. Seeking to resolve this problem, 10 years ago, the government instigated the Employment Permit System whereby it has opened its doors to foreign workers. Although South Korea has achieved much international acclaim for this policy, there may be negative consequences for some of the country's domestic workers.