Access to social security for migrant workers in South Korea

Purpose A growing number of unskilled labor migrants in South Korea and their integration have become important topics of social and academic policy debate. The accessibility and utilization of available social security programs for migrant workers are among the key components of migrant integration. This study aims to investigate the extent to which social services are available and identify the barriers to accessing these services. Design/methodology/approach This study uses an observational field-based approach and conducts in-depth interviews with migrant workers and social service providers at a government-commissioned migrant support center in Daegu, South Korea. Data was collected through the researcher’s direct observation, experiences and formal and informal communication with both service recipients and providers. Findings This study finds that social service provision for unskilled migrant workers is comprehensive from the governmental level, while potential barriers identified from the perspective of service receivers and service providers. Issues like information deficit, temporal limitations, service deficiency, administrative and legal obstacles, limited scopes of service, inadequate funding and cultural miscommunication require attention to help address social service delivery for migrant workers in South Korea. Originality/value This study is an observational field-based study in which the researcher directly engaged in data collection (i.e. observed behaviors, patterns and social conditions) for four years of continuous engagement in a government-commissioned migrant support center. Therefore, this study adds value by presenting the lived experiences of migrant workers and the real-world challenges faced at the local level. The findings of the study are important for social policy development.