
As the peak farming season arrives, Jindo County in Jeollanam-do is significantly expanding its Foreign Seasonal Worker Program to address the chronic labor shortage in rural areas.
According to Jindo County officials, seasonal workers from the Philippines and Vietnam have been deployed to local farms. These workers are playing a critical role in harvesting and processing Jindo’s specialty products, such as green onions and Goji berries (Gugija).
To ensure the welfare of these workers, Jindo County has implemented a comprehensive support system, including:
- Housing & Human Rights Monitoring: Regular inspections of accommodation facilities to prevent unfair treatment or wage delays.
- Cultural Integration: Korean language classes and basic medical check-ups provided by the local health center.
- Farm Owner Education: Mandatory training for local farmers on labor laws and cultural sensitivity.
“Foreign workers are no longer just temporary help; they are the backbone of our local economy,” a county official stated. “We are committed to creating a safe and fair working environment where they can feel respected as members of the Jindo community.”
Reporter Ji Kyeong-jun
