The city of Ulsan in South Korea is taking significant steps to improve employment opportunities for citizens of Uzbekistan through a new work visa program. This initiative, unveiled during a meeting on March 17, 2025, marks the first time South Korea has implemented a simplified approach for issuing work visas specifically targeting Uzbek nationals. Mayor Kim Doo-gyeom of Ulsan, who is leading this endeavor, met with Uzbekistan's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olimzhon Abdullaev, to discuss the details.
During the talks, the officials highlighted the need for expanding cooperation concerning labor migration and the development of human resources. The mayor explained the framework of this new pilot project, which allows Uzbek citizens to embark on three-month training courses where they will learn both professional skills and the Korean language. Upon completion of these courses, participants would then be eligible to obtain work visas and secure employment within the city's industrial sector.
This new approach is not merely a bureaucratic shift; it reflects a broader effort by the Uzbek government to diversify employment opportunities for its citizens abroad. With the plans set for 2025, the Uzbek authorities are aiming to employ over 200,000 citizens in economically developed countries, including South Korea. The importance of this program is underscored by the remarkable increase in money transfers from South Korea to Uzbekistan, which totaled $534 million in 2024—a 56% increase compared to the previous year.
Mayor Kim expressed optimism about the pilot project, noting that if successful, similar mechanisms might be deployed across other cities in South Korea. "We are ready to consider the requests from Uzbekistan for organized employment of its citizens at Ulsan enterprises, along with their families, provided they comply with migration laws,” he stated.
This promise of employment will not only benefit the individuals involved but also help strengthen the economic ties between Uzbekistan and South Korea. The discussions also included considerations for the legal status of these workers, emphasizing the importance of preventing illegal employment and ensuring compliance with local employment laws. Providing a clear pathway to legal employment is a cornerstone of this initiative.
The government of Uzbekistan, recognizing the significance of these developments, has been actively working towards enhancing labor migration channels to other countries. In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to expand the nations where Uzbek citizens can find employment, thereby alleviating some of the economic stresses faced within Uzbekistan.
Through this innovative program, Ulsan aims to create an inclusive workforce that can seamlessly integrate skilled Uzbek workers into its local economy, fostering mutual economic growth. The initiative's focus on training and education signals a commitment to not just attracting foreign workers but also empowering them to contribute effectively in their new roles.
As the pilot project unfolds, officials from both sides are hopeful that it will pave the way for a more structured and effective labor migration system, one that might see Ulsan become a model for other regions in South Korea looking to foster international cooperation in labor markets. The successful execution of this program could lead to exciting new phases in labor relations between Uzbekistan and South Korea, highlighting the importance of adapting to global labor trends.
With a thorough framework in place, Ulsan's approach represents a pragmatically beneficial solution to addressing labor shortages while simultaneously providing opportunities for Uzbek citizens looking for better employment prospects abroad. The collaboration is emblematic of how countries can work together towards mutual benefit, creating a sustainable economy that respects and uplifts the workforce involved.
As 2025 approaches, communities in both Uzbekistan and South Korea watch closely, eager to see how this innovative employment plan unfolds and its potential impact on their economies and workers.
