Seoul Implements New Measures to Protect Rights of Foreign Domestic Workers

On June 17, 2025, the city of Seoul announced new initiatives aimed at safeguarding the rights of foreign domestic workers and expanding their working hours. The city will transition from quarterly labor-management meetings to more localized discussions to better address the concerns of domestic workers. A formal channel will be established to gather feedback and respond swiftly to their needs.

Additionally, six foreign resident centers will be designated as support hubs, allowing domestic workers to access counseling services at convenient times and locations.

The city plans to guarantee a maximum working hour limit of 52 hours per week, an increase from the current average of approximately 40 hours. Officials noted that due to the nature of the work, there is a direct correlation between working hours and wages, leading many domestic workers to request more hours. Various strategies, including weekend and short-term matching, will be employed to help secure additional working hours.

Furthermore, Seoul intends to propose to the government the inclusion of foreign domestic workers in the 'Public Childcare Support Program,' which offers financial assistance for public caregiving services based on income levels, ranging from 15% to 85%. This move aims to alleviate the financial burden felt by citizens utilizing domestic labor services.