110,000 Care Jobs Opening in South Korea by 2028: Foreign Workers to Receive Equal Pay & Streamlined Visas

South Korea is staring down a critical social and economic crisis: a projected shortfall of approximately 110,000 elderly care workers by 2028, according to a major new report from the Korea Immigration Service Foundation released on March 16, 2026.

With the country’s population aging at one of the fastest rates in the world, the long-term care sector is on the brink of collapse unless foreign workers are brought in quickly — and treated fairly.

The report warns that without bold reforms, including expanded visas, equal labor protections, and better integration, South Korea risks severe gaps in care for its rapidly growing elderly population.

The Numbers Are Alarming

• Demand by 2028: ~800,000 care workers needed nationwide

• Projected supply: ~690,000 available workers

• Shortfall: ~110,000 workers

• Current workforce reality (2024): 657,104 care workers — 66% aged 60 or older

• Foreign caregivers today: Only 6,644 (a tiny fraction)

The aging of the care workforce itself is accelerating the crisis — many current workers will retire soon, leaving even fewer hands to meet exploding demand.

Why Foreign Caregivers Are Essential – And Why Korea Is Losing the Race

The report is blunt: low wages, limited residency prospects, and restrictive visa rules make South Korea unattractive compared to Japan, Germany, Canada, and other aging societies competing for the same global talent pool.

Current restrictions — mainly limiting foreign caregivers to the E-7 visa (skilled professionals) — are too narrow and unattractive. The report recommends:

• Allowing E-9 non-professional visa holders to enter training programs for care work

• Transition to E-7 once qualified

• Equal labor rights, wages, and protections for foreign and Korean workers

• Pairing foreign caregivers with Korean mentors in two-person teams during onboarding

• Deploying inactive certified Korean caregivers alongside foreigners to ease physical demands and create jobs for older locals

• Multicultural training for employers, Korean staff, and care recipients to reduce discrimination and conflicts

Key Recommendations from the Report

• Visa flexibility: Open E-9 pathway + easier E-7 transition

• Equal treatment: Same pay, hours, safety standards, and social security as locals

• Careful planning: Avoid oversupply that could depress wages or displace locals

• Training infrastructure: Build robust certification programs for foreigners

• Oversight: Stronger regulation of private recruitment agencies

• Integration: Broader cultural awareness programs beyond just “teaching foreigners about Korea”

What This Means for Immigration & Visas in 2026–2028

South Korea’s government is under pressure to act fast. The 2026 immigration strategy already includes pilot programs for care workers, but the new report calls for much bolder expansion — likely including larger quotas, new visa categories, or relaxed E-7/E-9 rules.

Employers, families, and care facilities should prepare for:

• Increased foreign caregiver hiring quotas

• Faster credential recognition and training pathways

• Stronger emphasis on fair treatment to attract and retain talent

For the full picture on South Korea’s evolving immigration rules, including new visa categories and seasonal/worker programs, read our detailed guide: South Korea 2026 Immigration Strategy – New Visa Rules & Policy Changes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – South Korea Care Worker Shortage 2026–2028

How many foreign care workers does South Korea currently have?

Only about 6,644 as of 2024 — far too few to close the projected 110,000 gap.

Why are foreign workers reluctant to come to Korea for care jobs?

Low wages, limited long-term residency options, restrictive visas, and concerns about fair treatment.

Will South Korea introduce a new dedicated caregiver visa?

Not yet confirmed, but the report strongly recommends expanding E-9 access and easing transitions to E-7.

Can foreign caregivers bring family members?

Currently limited; the report pushes for better family reunification rights to make Korea more attractive.

Where can I find the latest updates on South Korea work visas?

Check our dedicated collection: South Korea Visa & Immigration Updates

South Korea’s elderly care crisis is no longer a distant warning — it’s here. By 2028, the country must dramatically increase foreign caregiver numbers while ensuring they receive equal rights, fair pay, and real integration. The next 2–3 years will determine whether Korea can build a sustainable long-term care system or face severe shortages that affect millions of families.

Stay informed — major visa and quota changes are coming.