"Foreign Workers in South Korea: Policies, Challenges, and Prospects" (original) (raw)

Abstract

South Korea faces significant labor shortages due to an aging population and declining birth rates, making foreign workers essential to its economic stability. This paper examines South Korea's policies on foreign labor, focusing on the Employment Permit System (EPS), visa programs, and worker protection mechanisms. It also explores the challenges foreign workers face, including exploitation, limited mobility, and inadequate social integration. The analysis compares South Korea's labor policies with Japan's to highlight regional differences and similarities. The paper concludes by providing policy recommendations aimed at improving worker mobility, social integration, and regional collaboration. These suggestions aim to foster a sustainable and equitable labor migration framework that benefits both foreign workers and the South Korean economy.