Presidential Office: "Differential Minimum Wage Application for Foreign Helpers Requires Social Discussion"

Foreign domestic workers from the Philippines participating in the pilot project for foreign domestic workers are moving by bus after arriving at Incheon International Airport on the 6th. [Image source=Yonhap News]

The Presidential Office stated on the 23rd that the differential application of the minimum wage for foreign domestic helpers is "an issue that requires sufficient social discussion."

A representative from the Presidential Office said to reporters on the same day, "The government's and the Presidential Office's position is that the differential application of the minimum wage for foreign domestic workers (housekeepers) requires sufficient social discussion based on a review of practical aspects such as illegal stay, while considering domestic laws and international agreements."

The official emphasized, "Currently, as one of the various measures to alleviate childcare burdens, a pilot project utilizing foreign labor is being implemented, and through this, we plan to find practical and helpful solutions."

The pilot project for Filipino domestic workers currently being conducted for households residing in Seoul is a service provided through intergovernmental negotiations rather than private contracts, and the hourly minimum wage (9,860 won this year) is applied.

On the other hand, the Ministry of Justice's pilot project involves private contracts where foreigners residing in Korea, such as international students, are employed in part-time jobs through a platform, so the minimum wage is not applied.