The turning point in international migration and economic development in Korea

"This article aims to analyze the factors which led to the transition in international migration in [the Republic of] Korea. Three issues are explored. First, it is argued that Korea has passed the turning point since Korea needs to accept foreign labor for unskilled jobs for some sectors of the economy. Second, we analyze factors which led Korea to reach this turning point in international migration in the context of demographic change and industrial upgrading. Third, Korea's overseas employment as well as its policy of guestworkers are also discussed in the context of the country's structural adjustment. Then, policy options concerning foreign labor import are suggested."