Tips for Working in South Korea

Recently, the trend of migrant workers choosing South Korea as a work destination has increased. Many people from various countries, including Indonesia, are interested in trying their luck in this ginseng country. Why is South Korea a favorite? In addition to the many job opportunities, the salaries offered are also relatively attractive compared to other countries.

Plus, Korean pop culture such as K-pop and dramas make many people even more curious and want to experience the atmosphere there firsthand. But before leaving for South Korea, it is very important to have thorough preparation and complete knowledge about work rules, local culture, and basic language. This article will review various things you need to know about tips for working in South Korea.

Preparation Before Departure

Before leaving for work in South Korea, there are several important things that you must prepare so that everything runs smoothly and does not cause headaches in the middle of the road. First, you must take the EPS-TOPIK (Employment Permit System - Test of Proficiency in Korean), which is a Korean language proficiency test. This is the main requirement if you want to work officially there. So, learning Korean is not just to look cool, but it is really important! In addition to taking the test, you should also learn basic Koreanat least to be able to chat everyday or understand work orders. This will really help you when you start working later.

Then, don't forget to take care of all legal documents, such as passports, work visas, and official contracts. Make sure all documents are complete and valid, so that there are no legal problems there. Well, one more thing that is no less important, you must take pre-departure training from BP2MI. Here you will get information about your rights as a worker, work culture in Korea, and tips for living there.

Currently, there are also many LPK (job training institutions) that make South Korea a target for their destination country of work, you can register with this LPK to participate in the preparation and distribution of work to South Korea. The point is, the more prepared you are from the start, the more enjoyable it will be to live and work in Korea. So, don't just go!

South Korean Work Ethics and Culture that you need to know

If you plan to work in South Korea, it's not enough to just be able to work hardyou also have to understand their culture and work ethics which are quite different from Indonesia. First, regarding discipline and work ethic, Koreans are known to be very diligent and serious in their work. They value hard work and don't like being lazy or slacking off.

In the workplace, you will also encounter a hierarchical system. This means that you have to know who your boss is, who your seniors are, and who your colleagues are at the same level. Usually, you have to be very polite to people who are older or have higher positions. Speaking of being polite, the way of communicating in Korea also tends to be formal. The tone of voice, choice of words, and even body language must be maintained to remain polite.

One more important thing: punctuality and professionalism. Coming late can be considered disrespectful to others. So, get used to coming early and completing tasks seriously.
If you can adjust to the work culture in Korea, you are guaranteed to be more comfortable and appreciated in the workplace. So, let's learn slowly from now on!

Migrant Workers' Rights and Obligations

Working abroad, including South Korea, is not just about earning money. You also have rights and obligations that you must understand so that you can work calmly and safely. First, regarding working hours and wagesworkers in Korea usually work around 40 hours a week. If you work overtime, there is additional wages according to the rules. You are also entitled to leave and holidays, so don't hesitate to take a break according to the schedule. 

In addition, you will be protected by health and work safety insurance. This is very important because if you get sick or have an accident, you can still get treatment without worrying about expensive costs.

But remember, you also have obligations. One of them is to keep important documents such as passports, ARC (Alien Registration Card), and employment contracts. Don't lose or misuse them. And most importantly, obey the contents of the contract and don't work illegally. Illegal work can get you deported, blacklisted, or even unable to return to Korea again.

The point is, knowing your rights and obligations is the key to working safely and successfully abroad. Don't just work, but work smart and according to the rules!

Tips for Maintaining Mental and Physical Health

Working abroad, especially far from family, is not only physically tiring, but can also make you mentally tired. Therefore, maintaining mental and physical health is very important so that you stay strong and enthusiastic while in South Korea. One of the most effective ways is to maintain communication with your family. Just a video call or sending a message can make your heart calmer and feel less alone.

In addition, you can join the Indonesian migrant worker community there. Having friends with the same fate can be a place to confide, exchange information, and even become a second family when you miss your hometown.

Don't forget to manage stress and get enough rest. If your body is too tired and your mind is full of pressure, your work will not be optimal. Try to make time for things that make you relax, such as walking, watching movies, or doing light exercise.

And if you feel the burden is too heavy, don't hesitate to seek help. You can contact the Indonesian Embassy or a migrant worker support agency. Remember, you are not alone. Mental and physical health are the keys to surviving and succeeding in working in a foreign country.

Conclusion 

Working in South Korea can indeed be a great opportunity to change your life, but everything requires thorough preparation. Not only about physical and work skills, but also mental and administrative readiness. Without it, you can easily get stressed, confused about new rules, or even get caught up in legal problems. So, don't underestimate the process before leavingevery step is important to support your success in a foreign country.

For those of you who are planning to become a migrant worker, stay enthusiastic! The dream of improving your family's economy, building a better future, or simply seeking new experiences is very possible to achieve as long as you are serious and disciplined. Don't be afraid, many Indonesians have succeeded and you can too!

Finally, be a smart and wise migrant worker. Obey the rules, maintain a good name, and don't hesitate to keep learning. Wherever you are, remember that you carry the hopes of many people and your own future. With good intentions and serious effort, success is not just a dreamit's just a matter of time.