Working in South Korea: Opportunities, Requirements and Salaries

South Korea is renowned for its entertainment industry, particularly K-dramas, and its globally popular K-pop music. However, the country's influence extends beyond entertainment, as it is also known for its beauty products, such as makeup and skincare. 

As a result, South Korea has become a sought-after destination for people worldwide seeking job opportunities. Are you among those interested in working in Korea? Let’s dive into the complete information below!

Job Opportunities in South Korea

Many of you might not be aware, but according to Detik, a new trend has emerged in South Korea where young people are more inclined to remain unemployed rather than pursue higher education or work. 

This trend may come as a surprise, considering South Korea's reputation for discipline and hard work, much like Japan.

Due to this phenomenon, Korean companies are increasingly in need of workers to meet their human resource demands. This opens up greater opportunities for foreign workers to build careers in the country.

The good news is that since 2004, the Indonesian government has established a G to G (Government to Government)partnership with South Korea to facilitate labor deployment. If you’re interested in working there, you can participate in this program.

Requirements for Working in South Korea

Here are the qualifications and documents needed to join the South Korea work program:

Personal Qualifications:

1. Minimum education: Middle school or equivalent.
2. Age: 18 to 39 years old.
3. Clean criminal record.
4. No history of deportation from South Korea.
5. Consent from family (parents or spouse).
6. Physically and mentally fit, with no history of color blindness, lung disease, hepatitis, or sexually transmitted infections.
7. No history of amputations.
8. Not pregnant (for female candidates).
9. No foreign objects (such as implants) in the body.
10. Pass the Korean language proficiency test.
11. No work history exceeding five consecutive years in South Korea.

Required Documents:

1. Electronic Identity Card (E-KTP).
2. Family Card (KK).
3. Latest education certificate.
4. Birth certificate.
5. Job Seeker Card (Yellow Card).
6. Police Clearance Certificate (SKCK) from the Regional Police.
7. Valid passport.
8. Family consent letter, approved by the village head or local official.
9. Color blindness test certificate (issued within the last six months).
10. Personal bank account in the candidate’s name.
11. Active personal email address.

Failure to meet any of these requirements or provide the necessary documents may disqualify candidates from the program. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure everything is in order before submitting your application.

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How to Work in South Korea?

There are two main ways to work in South Korea: 1. Through the G to G program facilitated by the Indonesian and South Korean governments. 2. Through private agencies, although the latter may involve risks. 

It is highly recommended to follow the official G to G route to ensure a safer and more reliable process. Here’s the general process outlined by BP2MI (the Indonesian labor agency)::

1. Take a Korean language course.
2. Pass the EPS-TOPIK (Employment Permit System - Test of Proficiency in Korean). This exam evaluates language proficiency and job skills and is typically held twice a year.
3. Complete the online application, including medical check-up results if required. (medical check-up).
4. Wait for approval and receive the Standard Labour Contract (SLC) if accepted.
5. Attend preliminary education sessions for one week.
6. Prepare for departure and fly to South Korea to begin your job.

Salary and Job Prospects in South Korea

A key motivation for working in South Korea is the salary, which can range from IDR 30 million to IDR 40 million per month.

However, salaries may vary depending on the job type, location, skills, education, and work experience.

While the salary is enticing, it is essential to consider the cost of living in South Korea. Expenses such as housing, transportation, food, and other necessities are higher than in Indonesia. Careful financial planning is necessary to ensure a smooth experience living and working abroad.

Benefits for Indonesian Workers in South Korea

Indonesian workers in South Korea are entitled to several benefits under local regulations, including:

Work Visa

A valid work visa is required and issued by the South Korean embassy or designated authorities in Indonesia.

Legal and Health Protection

Foreign workers are protected under South Korean labor laws and can access the national healthcare system, including health insurance.

Minimum Wage

The South Korean government enforces a minimum wage policy, which applies to foreign workers as well.

Educational Facilities for Children

Workers bringing their families may access educational support for their children through schools or company programs.

Read Also: Cost of Living in Korea is Expensive? Check the Facts Here!

Accident Insurance

Most employers provide accident insurance for foreign workers.

Social Protection

Eligible workers can receive social benefits such as pension schemes, accident insurance, and health coverage.

Access to Public Services

Foreign workers enjoy equal access to public services, including public transportation and healthcare.

It is important to remember that the rights and facilities provided to foreign workers, including Indonesian citizens, in South Korea may vary based on visas, types of work, current regulations, and government policies that may change from time to time. 

It is advisable to always check the latest information from official sources such as the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Indonesia or relevant authorities in South Korea to obtain accurate and up-to-date information on facilities for Indonesian citizens working there.

The G to G Program: Government Collaboration for Employment

The G to G program (Government to Government) between South Korea and Indonesia facilitates collaboration in various sectors, including employment. This program allows Indonesian workers to pursue careers in South Korea through an official channel, ensuring safer employment opportunities.

For those interested, it is recommended to check the official websites of the Ministry of Manpower, the South Korean embassy, or other relevant institutions to stay informed about the latest updates, requirements, and application procedures.

Job Selection Process in South Korea (G to G Program)

The selection process for the G to G program generally involves the following steps:

Registration and Initial Screening:

Announcements are usually made by government agencies or labor organizations. Applicants must follow the registration procedure and submit the required documents.

Skill and Qualification Tests:

This phase includes Korean language tests, health checks, and job-related skill assessments.

Final Selection and Job Placement:

Successful candidates will proceed to the final stage, where they are matched with suitable jobs.

Pre-Departure Training:

Before departure, candidates undergo cultural orientation and skills training relevant to their new roles.

It is important to remember that each G to G program have requirements and procedures that may differ slightly, depending on the specific cooperation between the two countries. The government through official agencies such as the Ministry of Manpower, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or related institutions is usually responsible for the implementation and regulation of this program.

After knowing the opportunities, the salary is quite large when compared to the minimum wage range in Indonesia and the facilities provided for Indonesian citizens who work there, of course, it makes you all even more interested, right?

Now, there is no need to worry anymore about trying out job opportunities in Korea! Especially since your family and relatives in Indonesia can provide financial support with Easylink.

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