The government has initiated discussions on protecting the rights and improving the working conditions of migrant workers in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. As the workforce in fishing villages declines and ages, migrant workers have become essential personnel, prompting efforts to strengthen systems for preventing human rights violations and providing remedies.
On July 30, the Ministry of Employment and Labor held a meeting on the protection of migrant workers' rights in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, chaired by Minister Kim Young-hoon, at the Gwangju Government Complex.
With the ongoing decline in fishing personnel and an aging workforce, migrant workers have established themselves as key contributors in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The types of work visas available for the fishing industry include E-8 seasonal work, E-9 non-professional employment, and E-10 seafarer employment.
The number of migrant workers in the fishing sector has been on the rise. From 2021 to 2025, the allocation for E-8 visas increased from 996 to 8,796, E-9 workers rose from 6,000 to 14,000, and E-10 residents grew from 18,000 to 21,000.
However, some fishing workplaces have reported unfair treatment of migrant workers, including violence, wage theft, and inadequate housing. In response, the Ministry is enhancing its field-based prevention, inspection, and rights remedy systems to quickly identify and protect victims of human rights violations.
Specifically, the Ministry will operate anonymous surveys and reporting channels in which migrant workers can participate in their native languages. It will appoint 'foreign human rights leaders' who are familiar with local conditions to identify potential human rights violations early. In regions with high concentrations of migrant workers, such as Mokpo and Yeosu, the Ministry will conduct guidance, inspections, and planned supervision focused on aquaculture businesses.
During the meeting, participants shared updates on the protection of migrant workers' rights in the fishing sector and discussed collaborative strategies and institutional improvements for preventing human rights violations and enhancing working conditions. The Ministry plans to review the suggestions made during the meeting to strengthen the systems and support frameworks for preventing human rights violations and providing remedies for migrant workers.
Minister Kim Young-hoon emphasized, "Today, migrant workers are indispensable personnel in our fishing villages, not just temporary guests but colleagues and neighbors who help build workplaces and communities together. All labor must be recognized fairly, and respect for labor should not vary by nationality."
He added, "A workplace where workers are treated safely and fairly can lead to stable workforce retention and increased productivity. We will work together with employers, local governments, and the national government to ensure that these workplaces become safe and healthy environments."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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