On September 9, the Ministry of Employment and Labor (MOEL) introduced new measures to improve the rights and working conditions of foreign workers in Korea. The announcement was made during a meeting on the Employment Permit System (EPS), joined by representatives from both central and local governments.

Foreign workers are a key part of many industries in Korea, and the government emphasized that ensuring their fair treatment and safety is now a stronger priority.

Easier Job Changes

Under the updated EPS, foreign workers will have more flexibility to move to a different workplace if they face unfair treatment or unsafe conditions. This is meant to protect workers from being trapped in harmful environments.

Longer Employment Without Leaving the Country

Another important change is stability. Workers can now stay employed in Korea for a longer period without the need to leave and reenter the country. This will reduce stress and unnecessary costs for both workers and employers.

Stronger Rules for Employers

Employers who are found to violate workers’ rights will face tougher restrictions on hiring. By tightening these rules, the government hopes to create a safer and more respectful working culture.

More Support for Workers

The government will also launch a 24-hour multilingual counseling service powered by AI, giving workers reliable guidance on labor rights anytime they need it. On top of this, more inspections and support programs will be rolled out to improve living conditions.

Working Together

Local governments also shared successful cases from Jeollanam-do, Gyeonggi-do, and Ulsan, showing that regional cooperation plays a big role in improving conditions.

Vice Minister Kwon Changjun explained the main goal clearly: foreign workers should be treated fairly, without discrimination, and work in a safe environment.