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Tengrinews.kz - Kazakhstan’s Minister of Labor and Social Protection, Svetlana Zhakupova, addressed the issue of Kazakhstani citizens living and working illegally in South Korea.
During a government meeting in the Mazhilis, Zhakupova revealed that around 15,000 Kazakh nationals are currently residing in South Korea without proper documentation. South Korean authorities have requested that Kazakhstan arrange for their return.
"Our Vice Minister, Askarbek Ertayev, traveled to South Korea specifically to address this matter. They have set three conditions. First, our embassy in Korea must create the position of a labor attaché. Second, South Korea insists that we find ways to repatriate the nearly 15,000 Kazakhstani citizens living there illegally. Third, Kazakh citizens seeking work in Korea must undergo certification," explained Zhakupova.
She noted that a process of readmission - returning citizens from another country - will be applied to these illegal labor migrants. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is overseeing this matter.
"There will be no legal or administrative consequences if they voluntarily purchase a ticket and return home. However, if they fail to do so, they could face legal repercussions. The specific penalties are unknown at this time," Zhakupova added.
For several years, South Korea has been an attractive destination for Kazakhstani workers. In February 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that 7,000 to 8,000 Kazakh nationals were working illegally in South Korea.
