Since the time when South Korea established its position as one of the most advanced economies, specifically from the mid-1980s, it has also been known to be one of the countries that has been actively attracting foreign workers. Specifically, after the 1988 Seoul Olympics, South Korea has been continuously advancing economically. This led to the improvement of awareness regarding rights and income increase, which in turn intensified the avoidance of the so-called 3D industries by the domestic workers.
The beginning of 1990s witnessed the start of the full-scale influx of foreign workers to Korea. According to data published by the Ministry of Justice, there are about 760,000 foreign workers currently residing in South Korea. These foreign workers have been experiencing problems such as language barriers, problems with the legal systems, cultural differences and so on. Furthermore, they have been exposed to the poor working conditions of 3D industries, and other problems include: delayed payment of wages, physical assaults, industrial accidents, and illnesses; some were even victims of human rights abuse.
The Korea Support Center for Foreign Workers was established in December 2004 in accordance to the employment laws for foreign workers. This Center was established to protect the rights and welfare of foreign workers. We are operating under the Human Resources Development of Korea (HRD Korea) and by consignment given by Global Love Sharing.
At this Center, we implement various educational programs that are necessary for the foreign workers and we also inform them about the traditional culture of Korea. In addition, we also provide counseling services to foreign workers who have been facing difficulties. We also aim to increase these workers’ satisfaction and happiness through our welfare facilities. Through these efforts, we have not only prevented the negative impressions on South Korea, but in fact, we have actively improved the national image.
In this global age, it is necessary to understand that we are all part of a big family. Borders have become meaningless. As we transcend the barriers erected by race and religion, language and nationalities, we all recognize each other as dignified individuals. With these ideals, the Korea Support Center for Foreign Workers promises to exert its best efforts in protecting the rights and welfare of the foreign workers.