Dated updates to visa, tax, residency, citizenship, housing, and labour policy across every country tracked. Every entry cites its primary source and the date we last verified it.
The Minimum Wage Council raised the minimum hourly wage to ₩10,030 for 2025 (from ₩9,860 in 2024) — the first time the threshold crossed ₩10,000. Continues a multi-year trajectory under both Moon and Yoon administrations.
Who it affects: All low-wage Korean and non-Korean workers.
Korea Ministry of Justice ↗ · Office of the President of Korea ↗ · verified 2026-04-19
The E-9 EPS programme — historically restricted to manufacturing, agriculture, and certain other low-skill sectors — was expanded to include the restaurant industry from April 2024. Specifically targets cooks and kitchen-assistant roles in Korean restaurants, addressing chronic understaffing.
Who it affects: Restaurant employers and prospective E-9 workers from origin countries.
Korea Ministry of Justice ↗ · verified 2026-04-19
The annual quota for non-professional E-9 (Employment Permit System) foreign workers was raised to 165,000 for 2024 — a record high — to address persistent labour shortages in manufacturing, agriculture, and construction. Maintained at similar levels for 2025.
Who it affects: Manufacturing, construction, and agriculture employers.
Korea Ministry of Justice ↗ · Office of the President of Korea ↗ · verified 2026-04-19