A Strategic Approach to Healthy Workplace Environments for Immigrant Workers

The number of immigrant workers worldwide continues to increase steadily, and in South Korea as well, workers of various nationalities are participating in economic activities, primarily in so-called 3D (Dirty, Dangerous, and Difficult) industries such as manufacturing, construction, and service sectors. However, these workers face numerous challenges, including language barriers, long working hours, low wages, industrial accidents, and human rights violations, which pose serious threats to their physical and mental health. In particular, the likelihood of experiencing industrial accidents is high due to hazardous working environments, highlighting the urgent need for systematic protection of their health and safety. This study employed a descriptive research method to explore the current status and challenges related to the health and working conditions of immigrant workers in South Korea. By reviewing a wide range of relevant literature, the study aims to identify key issues faced by immigrant workers and provide insights for potential policy improvements. Therefore, This study examines the health and working conditions of migrant workers in South Korea. Based on the principles of the World Health Organization(WHO) for creating a Healthy Workplace framework, the study proposes strategic measures that can be implemented within the current Korean workplace environment. These include the establishment of centralized health management centers for immigrant workers, the development of a systematic infrastructure for building big data related to immigrant worker health, and the creation of safe workplaces tailored to the needs of female migrant workers and international students.