World Immigration News

(Hankyoreh)A lifeline to immigrant-background young people left behind by Korea’s system

Release Date: 2026-07-17
Media: Hankyoreh
Summary: The article examines the challenges faced by young people from immigrant backgrounds who have grown up in South Korea but continue to face legal and social barriers despite considering Korea their only home. It centers on the launch of the Kang Tae-wan Fellowship, established in memory of Kang Tae-wan, who lived as an undocumented migrant for over 20 years before obtaining legal status under a regional work program and later died in a workplace accident in 2024.

The article highlights the experiences of three fellowship recipients. Marina, born in Korea to Mongolian parents, struggled with depression, poverty, and strict visa rules that limited her ability to work and study even after receiving legal residency. Assem, who grew up in Korea, encountered discrimination in the job market and conflicting immigration rules while attending university. Aisha, originally from Kyrgyzstan, also faced complicated visa procedures, financial hardship, and barriers to higher education despite her academic achievements.

The report argues that South Korea’s recent measures granting temporary legal status to long-term undocumented children have improved access to residency but have not resolved broader issues such as employment restrictions, access to higher education, healthcare costs, and social integration. Many young migrants remain legally recognized yet unable to build stable, independent lives.

The article concludes that meaningful integration requires more than residence permits. It calls for long-term residence status, fairer access to employment, education, healthcare, and citizenship, arguing that only comprehensive institutional reform will allow these young people to become full members of Korean society.
Tags: Korea

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