South Korea has introduced a new policy that allows foreign graduates staying in the country on D-10 job seeker visas to take part-time jobs in the manufacturing sector.
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| Korea Allows D-10 Job Seeker Visa Holders to Work Part-Time in Manufacturing |
The policy, announced by the Korea Immigration Service under the Ministry of Justice (South Korea), took effect earlier this week. It expands job opportunities for international graduates who remain in Korea after finishing their studies while searching for full-time employment.
Previously, D-10 visa holders could only work part-time in limited areas such as professional internships or service jobs like restaurants. Manufacturing work was not allowed, which left many graduates struggling financially during their job search.
The change also comes after growing criticism that Korea was not fully utilizing talented international students educated in the country. Officials say the expanded work options will help graduates gain practical experience and reduce financial pressure while they look for long-term jobs.
The discussion around visa reform intensified after the tragic death of a Vietnamese graduate from Keimyung University during a government crackdown ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit 2025 in Gyeongju.
📊 According to government statistics, cases of D-10 visa holders working illegally have been rising in recent years:
• 224 cases in 2023
• 297 cases in 2024
• 367 cases in 2025
Migrant support groups welcomed the policy but emphasized the need for stronger safety measures, as manufacturing jobs can carry higher risks of workplace accidents.
The government says the goal is to support international graduates while making better use of skilled global talent trained in Korea.
💬 Do you think this policy will help more international graduates build their careers in Korea?