Working in Korea

With record foreign direct investment (FDI) of $32.7 billion in 2023, South Korea has a strong economy and offers employment opportunities across a wide range of sectors. The country is a major economic hub in Asia, home to numerous international companies and increasingly attracting expatriates. As the country becomes more open to the global economy, foreign workers are increasingly valued, particularly for accessing new markets and developing international projects. Growing trade between South Korea and its Asian and European partners, particularly through free trade agreements with the EU, Vietnam, Indonesia, and RCEP in recent years, makes the country one of the world’s most dynamic and promising economies.

However, while the Korean economy is dynamic and promising, the labor market remains difficult to access. Highly educated Korean students face increasing competition and struggle to find employment. Youth unemployment is a reality (6.7%, compared with an average of 2.8% across the working population in May 2024), and young people are often forced to accept part-time positions or jobs below their qualifications. This challenging overall environment further limits the number of opportunities available to young foreign job seekers.

See the sections below for more information:

The information provided on these pages is for informational purposes only. It is general in nature and may vary significantly depending on the company, the position sought, and the candidate’s profile. It does not apply to teaching professions (e.g., language teachers) and is intended for job seekers looking for employment in companies in Korea. FKCCI strives to provide reliable and up-to-date information but cannot, under any circumstances, be held responsible for its accuracy or for any consequences arising from its use.