Gyeonggi Province has announced its initiative to offer public legal support for vulnerable immigrant populations facing barriers due to language, cultural differences, and a lack of information. The program, dubbed the 'Gyeonggi Province Immigrant Legal Support Team,' aims to recruit around 20 lawyers with over two years of practical experience. Lawyers with experience in handling immigrant-related cases or who have completed relevant training will be given preference during the selection process. These selected lawyers will undergo mandatory training before commencing their duties to provide support in civil, family, and immigration-related legal matters starting in early April until December 31 of the same year.

In addition to lawyer recruitment, Gyeonggi Province plans to create recommended fee guidelines based on the type of case and implement a standard contract to reduce the struggles around fees and transparency in the contracting process. The actual fees will be negotiated between the client and the lawyer, and immigrants needing legal assistance can apply for consultation at the Gyeonggi Immigration and Multicultural Support Center. After an initial consultation and case review, eligibility for lawyer support will be determined, with necessary provisions for interpretation and coordination with legal processes as required.

Yun Hyun-ok, head of the Gyeonggi Provincial Immigration Policy Department, emphasized the commitment to ensuring that immigrants can protect their rights within the legal system, even during disputes. This initiative responds to the pressing need for accessible legal resources for immigrants who often find themselves disadvantaged in legal settings due to various barriers, reflecting Gyeonggi Province’s ongoing efforts to support its diverse population and promote equal access to justice.