World Immigration News

(The Korea Herald)South Korea still ‘too exclusive,’ immigration lawyers’ chief says

Release Date: 2026-05-11
Media: The Korea Herald
Summary: Korean Immigration Lawyers Association President Park Bum-il said South Korea needs a more flexible immigration system to retain foreign talent and reduce illegal stays. He argued that current visa rules are too rigid, especially for foreign students and workers who have spent years studying and working in Korea but are still forced to leave after limited job-seeking periods or strict visa requirements.

Park said the Employment Permit System and work visa rules should be eased so skilled and diligent foreign workers can remain legally in Korea. He warned that strict requirements can push people into overstaying, fake marriages, or humanitarian claims. He also proposed creating a more independent immigration agency to better coordinate immigration, labor, and integration policies in response to demographic decline and labor shortages.

In addition, Park criticized South Korea’s strict airport entry screening system, noting that even foreigners with valid visas are sometimes denied entry. He called for stronger legal protections, including better access to lawyers and clearer procedures for challenging entry denials.
Tags: Korea

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