On Saturday, October 5, 2024, the Foreigners in Korea Support Center held a regular general meeting, focusing on the pressing challenges faced by internationals living in the country. This association is dedicated to helping foreigners, especially those who struggle to find accurate information after completing their studies. The reality is, navigating life in Korea can be daunting, with ever-changing visa regulations and a lack of resources to keep people informed.
Since July (2024) alone, visa regulations have shifted nearly four times, making it even harder for individuals to stay up to date. During the meeting, one notable example came to light: a person holding a D-10 visa, which is intended for job seekers, was unaware that they were eligible to work part-time in Korea. This underscores the information gap that exists, even for those actively engaged in the system. Another issue raised was the G-1-2 visa, which is specifically designed for those seeking healthcare in Korea. The woman leading the support center (Ms. Bia Lee) played a pivotal role in advocating for this visa, allowing foreigners to receive medical treatment without the need to return to their home countries.
One of the central issues discussed at the meeting was the lack of awareness surrounding visa transitions, particularly from a D-2 (student) visa to an E-7 (work) visa after graduation. Many international students are unsure of the process, or the conditions required to make this shift, leaving them in limbo after completing their studies. Addressing this gap is critical to supporting the future of foreign graduates in Korea.
In addition to discussing challenges, the meeting also recognized and celebrated members of the community who have made significant contributions. Appreciation plaques were awarded to individuals such as the former president of the Ghanaian Students Association and the president of the Tanzanian Association, honoring their leadership and efforts within the international community.
Since officially opening on March 16, 2024, the Foreigners Support Center has been incredibly active in advocating for international residents in Korea. From hosting events to visiting embassies and attending other associations’ activities, their efforts have not gone unnoticed. They even received an invitation to the prestigious Korea-Africa Business Forum 2024. Through these activities, they’ve signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) and forged partnerships to further strengthen their work in supporting the foreign community.
The visionary leader of the center has ambitious plans for the future, including the possibility of establishing or reallocating a city specifically for Africans in Korea. This bold idea reflects her commitment to creating a supportive and welcoming environment for African residents. Before opening her own center, she faced significant obstacles, often being ignored by Korean immigration authorities and government officials. However, through her relentless advocacy and the growing support of the community, things are beginning to change.
The message from the meeting was clear: collective action is key. If more people join in and raise their voices, it will be harder for the authorities to overlook their needs. The fight for better visa policies and support systems for internationals, particularly around the D-10 visa, is ongoing, and every bit of support counts.
As the Foreigners Support Center continues its important work, it is crucial to spread the word and encourage as many people as possible to get involved. Together, they are building a stronger, more informed, and more empowered international community in Korea.
