Korea may need foreign workers to fill 110,000 elderly care jobs by 2028

South Korea may face a serious shortage of elderly care workers in the future. A report from the Korea Immigration Service Foundation says the country could be short of about 110,000 workers by 2028.

The report explains that around 800,000 care workers will be needed, but only about 690,000 workers may be available. One reason for this shortage is that many current care workers are already older. In fact, about 66% of workers in this field are aged 60 or above.

At the same time, there are very few foreign caregivers in South Korea. Only about 6,600 foreign workers are currently in this job. Experts say the country may need to bring in more foreign workers to help care for its growing elderly population.

However, the report says foreign workers should be treated fairly. They should receive the same rights, pay, and protection as local workers. The government is also advised to provide training programs and help foreign workers adjust to their jobs.

Experts suggest pairing foreign workers with Korean workers at the beginning to help them learn. They also say that careful planning is important so there are not too many workers in the future.

Edited using generative AI tools.
Source : https://globalnation.inquirer.net/314232/korea-may-need-foreign-workers-to-fill-110000-elderly-care-jobs-by-2028

Comprehension

How many care workers might South Korea need by 2028?
Why is there a shortage of care workers?
How many foreign caregivers are currently working in South Korea?
What does the report suggest about foreign workers’ rights?
How can foreign workers be helped when they start working?

Discussion

Why is caring for the elderly important in society?
Do you think foreign workers should be hired to solve labor shortages? Why or why not?
What challenges might foreign caregivers face in a new country?
How can governments support both local and foreign workers fairly?
Would you consider working as a caregiver? Why or why not?
How does an aging population affect a country’s economy?
What skills are important for care workers?
How can societies better prepare for an aging population?

Vocabulary

Shortage – not enough of something
Caregiver – a person who takes care of others, especially the elderly
Workforce – all the people working in a country or industry
Aging – growing older
Protection – safety and rights given by law
Training – learning skills for a job
Adjust – to get used to a new situation
Fair treatment – being treated equally and justly