South Korea's New Application Cap for Korean Language Test through EPS
Introduction to the 2025 Application Changes
Starting in 2025, South Korea will implement significant changes to the application process for the Korean language test administered under the Employment Permit System (EPS). These modifications are aimed at streamlining the procedure and managing the high volume of applicants aspiring to work in Korea.
Key Changes to the Application Process
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Limited Application Intake: The Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security, along with HRD Korea, have decided to cap the number of applications. From 2025, only three times the number of needed applicants will be accepted. This measure is intended to alleviate the prolonged examination process currently faced by candidates.
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Automated Application Closure: To further manage the flow of applications, a new system will be implemented that will automatically stop accepting applications once the cap is reached. This is to prevent the year-round exam schedule currently necessary due to the overwhelming number of candidates.
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Unified Application Periods Across Sectors: In a significant shift from the current practice, starting from 2025, South Korea will invite applications for all employment sectors simultaneously. This change means that applicants will no longer need to apply multiple times for different sectors, thus simplifying the process.
Impact on Applicants and Examination Process
- Reduction in Applicant Numbers: By consolidating the application periods and limiting submissions to one per sector per individual, the total number of applicants is expected to decrease. This will help streamline both the preparation and execution phases of the Korean language examination.
- Scheduled Exams: The EPS branch has announced that for the year 2024, HRD Korea requested applications for 15,848 positions in production from Nepal, yet over 164,000 applications were received. This new cap will likely reduce such disparities in the future.
These changes reflect South Korea's strategic approach to managing foreign employment through the EPS effectively. By controlling application numbers and consolidating the application process, HRD Korea aims to create a more organized and less burdensome system for all parties involved. This approach not only benefits the applicants by reducing the wait times and uncertainty but also aids administrative bodies in managing resources more efficiently.
