The Jeonbuk State is strengthening its support measures for foreign residents by expanding the 'region-specific visa' program to proactively respond to the crisis of local extinction.

 

Starting this year, the operational period of the Regional Specialized Visa program will be extended from the previous one year to two years, and the target areas will be expanded to include Iksan, which is designated as a population decline concern area. Additionally, the maximum number of foreign employees per company will be increased from 20 to 50, and regulations will be eased to allow foreign employment in all industries, further promoting the influx of foreign talent.

 

Jeonbuk State is making this policy, which supports long-term settlement of foreigners through recommendations from the provincial governor, a key part of its strategy to address local extinction. The aim is to actively encourage the influx of foreigners to solve the ongoing issues of population decline and labor shortages.

 

This year's recruitment targets include four types:

 

▲ Region-Specific High-Quality Talent (F-2-R), ▲ Region-Specific Skilled Workers (E-7-4R), ▲ Skilled Workers (E-7-4), ▲ Region-Specific Overseas Koreans (F-4-R)

 

Furthermore, to help foreigners settle stably in the region, the 'Jeonbuk Foreign Workers Support Center' is operated. During the initial settlement period, a 'Jeonbuk Love Kit' containing daily necessities and a settlement guide is provided. Additionally, support for Korean language education and job skills enhancement training is offered to assist foreigners in adapting to the local community.

 

Jeonbuk State plans to actively operate job fairs and on-site company briefings to match foreign workers with businesses, expanding employment opportunities for foreigners and addressing labor shortages in local companies. In particular, foreigners who switch to a region-based visa will receive a visa upgrade support grant of 300,000 KRW to ease their financial burden.

 

Jeollabuk State doesn't just bring in foreigners. It also runs various social integration programmes to help them settle into the community. It organises tours to learn about local history and culture so that they can understand local identity and interact with local people. The aim is to create an environment where foreigners and locals can live together.