Introduction
The EPS Program Vietnam Korea has been one of the most successful labor cooperation models in Asia. Recently, South Korea signaled that it is considering an increase in the number of Vietnamese workers admitted under the program. This decision reflects Korea’s growing demand for foreign labor and Vietnam’s reputation as a reliable workforce supply partner.
For both workers and employers, this potential expansion brings exciting opportunities.
Why South Korea Needs More Foreign Workers
South Korea faces an aging population and labor shortages in industries such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and fisheries. The country’s birth rate continues to decline, while demand for entry-level and physically intensive jobs is rising. To maintain economic growth, Korea increasingly relies on the Employment Permit System (EPS) to legally recruit workers from partner countries like Vietnam.
Vietnam’s Position in the EPS Program
Vietnam has been part of the EPS Program since 2004. Over the past two decades:
- More than 135,000 Vietnamese workers have gone to Korea through EPS.
- As of 2025, tens of thousands are actively employed across various industries.
- Vietnam ranks among the top sending countries by volume and contract completion rate.
Korean employers often prefer Vietnamese workers because of their strong work ethic, adaptability, and cost-effectiveness.
Government-to-Government Cooperation
Unlike private broker channels, the EPS operates on a government-to-government (G2G) basis. Recruitment is coordinated by:
- HRD Korea (Human Resources Development Service of Korea)
- MOLISA Vietnam (Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs) – Now merge to Ministry of Home Affairs (Moha).
This cooperation ensures:
- Transparent recruitment procedures
- Lower costs for workers
- Legal protection under Korean labor laws
- Monitoring to prevent illegal stay and exploitation
What the Expansion Could Mean for Workers
If Korea increases its intake of Vietnamese workers under EPS:
- More job opportunities will open up in high-demand industries.
- Workers can expect stable income, averaging $1,500–$2,000 per month.
- Legal benefits include health insurance, pension contributions, and workplace safety coverage.
- Workers receive pre-departure training in Vietnam and on-site orientation in Korea, making integration smoother.
This expansion would also support Vietnam by:
- Reducing unemployment pressures at home
- Bringing in significant remittances to families and local economies
- Enhancing workers’ skills and international experience
What It Means for Employers in Korea
Korean companies will gain access to a larger, reliable, and disciplined workforce from Vietnam. The EPS ensures:
- Lower recruitment risks compared to informal brokers
- Contract compliance and retention support
- Pre-trained workers with language and cultural orientation
- Opportunities for re-employment of experienced returnees
Challenges and Compliance Obligations
Despite its success, the EPS Program also comes with responsibilities for both workers and employers:
- Workers must complete contracts and avoid illegal stay.
- Employers must comply with Korean labor laws, including wages and working conditions.
- Governments on both sides continue to cooperate to reduce overstays and increase worker protection.
Future Outlook
If South Korea officially decides to expand quotas for Vietnamese workers, the EPS Program will enter a new phase of growth. More industries may be included, and cooperation between HRD Korea and MOLISA Vietnam will deepen. This signals long-term stability for Korean employers and new opportunities for Vietnamese workers.
Conclusion
The EPS Program Vietnam Korea has already proven to be a successful labor cooperation model. With South Korea now considering increasing the intake of Vietnamese workers, the future looks promising for both sides. For Vietnamese workers, this is a chance to secure well-paid, legal jobs abroad. For Korean employers, it is an opportunity to access a disciplined and motivated workforce.
📌 Are you looking for a reliable Vietnamese worker supplier?
Are you an employer looking to recruit skilled and reliable Vietnamese workers? Or are you a Vietnamese worker interested in legal opportunities in Korea?
👉 Contact Firstman Vietnam today for a free consultation and guidance on the official EPS Program.
FIRSTMAN VIETNAM RECRUITMENT, MANPOWER SUPPLY & IMMIGRATION SERVICES AGENCY
📍 Office HCMC: 725/21 Truong Chinh street, Tay Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
📍 Office Hanoi: 36 Le Duc Tho street, My Dinh Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam
📞 💬 +84-944-578-111 | 📧 admin@firstman.vn
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