On December 3rd, the South Korean Ministry of Justice presented its 'Future Strategy for Immigration Policy 2030', which outlines a comprehensive approach targeting a range of skilled migrants, from advanced industrial scientists to caregivers for declining regions. Minister Jeong Seong-ho emphasized the need to reform immigration policy away from relying on low-skilled foreign labor toward a long-term national strategy that can sustain a balanced workforce.

The newly proposed 'Top-Tier Visa' is set to expand beyond industries like semiconductors and artificial intelligence, allowing positions for researchers and professors in the science and technology fields. Additionally, a new 'K-CORE Visa' is introduced to foster mid-skill professional talent through domestic specialized colleges, aiming at enhancing the skillsets of foreign workers in South Korea. The Ministry plans to drive this initiative through educational institutions designated as training centers for foreign caregivers, instigating a structured approach to meet demographic challenges.

As part of its strategy, the Ministry intends to design a 'Regional Immigration Package Program' enabling foreigners to directly move and work in diminishing populations across the country. Furthermore, various visa categories will be simplified into three tiers based on skill level, focusing on professional employment while allowing small businesses to hire foreign workers. Enhanced border control measures using AI and biometric data will also be implemented to efficiently process and manage foreign entrants, protecting their rights and ensuring lawful employment throughout South Korea.