SEOUL: The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced plans on Tuesday to substantially expand specialized vocational training for foreign workers entering South Korea on non-professional employment visas (E-9). The move comes as the government seeks to address labor shortages in shipbuilding and other foundational industries.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the expansion aims to improve job skills and facilitate quicker assimilation into Korean culture and language for migrant workers.
Earlier this year, a pilot program was initiated for workers in the shipbuilding sector holding E-9 visas. By the end of this year, approximately 500 to 600 foreign workers are expected to complete the specialized training at six key shipbuilders: Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, Samsung Heavy Industries, Hyundai Mipo Dockyard, Hanwha Ocean, and Daehan Shipbuilding. The Ministry said that next year, the month-long vocational training will be extended to other foundational industries, with the number of training recipients projected to increase to 4,000.
Lee unveiled the policy plan during a visit to Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries in Yeongam County to hear the challenges facing the shipbuilding industry. He indicated that the number of labor-sending countries offering pre-arrival vocational and language training for E-9 visa holders will be extended from the current three to seven. The Ministry also plans to strengthen training for existing E-9 workers.
Moreover, Lee revealed that the Ministry will decide the number of E-9 workers to be admitted into South Korea under the Employment Permit System for next year earlier than usual, making the decision sometime in November.