Korea to prioritize Korean language ability as part of immigration reform

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Korea prepares to welcome more foreign workers through its reformed immigration policy, greater emphasis will be placed on an immigrant's proficiency in the Korean language compared to other skills. The Ministry of Justice told The Korea Times that fluency in Korean would play a significant role in the issuance of E-7-4 visas. These visas, which grant permanent stay in Korea with an initial three-year period and unlimited renewals, are given to individuals who meet specific criteria including a minimum of four years of work experience. The Ministry stated that mastering the Korean language is fundamental for immigrants to assimilate into Korean society, paralleling the approach of other countries. To encourage this, higher points will be awarded to those with exceptional language skills who seek to switch to E-7-4 visas. This stance aligns with the direction set by Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon, who emphasized the primacy of language ability over even technical skills like welding. He emphasized that individuals proficient in Korean would receive substantial incentives. Han Dong-hoon also emphasized the urgency of immigration reform to embrace skilled foreign workers as a critical priority for Korea. Despite government efforts, the nation's birthrate continues to decline dramatically, prompting a need for harmonious coexistence with foreign labor. Han Dong-hoon stressed that Korea's future hinges on the development of a well-structured immigration system and cautioned against hasty implementation to prevent severe political divisions. He cited examples from various other countries to highlight the importance of careful planning.

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