Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Justice minister vows to expand E-7-4 visa quota to tackle labor shortages at shipyards
Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon speaks to foreign workers during his visit to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan, Friday. Yonhap
By Kim Hyun-bin
Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon vowed to address the acute labor shortage in the shipbuilding sector by easing visa restrictions for foreign workers, during his visit to the Ulsan headquarters of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries on Friday.
"It is regrettable that shipyards cannot build ships now due to a lack of workforce," Minister Han said.
"I will do my best to supply more skilled laborers with E-7-4 visas for the development of Korea. However, in selecting foreign workers who get along well with our citizens, we will prioritize the evaluation of Korean language proficiency."
The E-7-4 visa, reserved for skilled professionals, enables workers to stay for longer periods and bring their family members here.
Han stressed the importance of offering benefits to foreigners possessing outstanding science and technology expertise, expressing his intention to seek recommendations from local governments and businesses for long-term resident qualifications for these people.
In addition, Han raised the need to establish a proper "control tower" exclusively handling issues related to foreign nationals, saying the governing of such issues has been scattered across ministries, reducing the efficiency of the process.
"The ministry is preparing to submit a relevent bill in cooperation with lawmakers of the ruling People Power Party. I hope the National Assembly will share the need for that establishment," Han said.
"I hope for Korea to become a leading country in the world, guiding the voluntary contributions of foreign workers while effectively addressing the concerns of domestic residents caused by the influx of foreigners over the next 10 years."
Later in the day, Han engaged in private discussions at Hyundai Heavy Industries headquarters with company representatives, foreign workers, Ulsan Mayor Kim Doo-kyum and local lawmakers. He gathered diverse opinions on the development of the shipbuilding industry.