Fisheries Jobs in South Korea

Fisheries jobs in South Korea: A Comprehensive Guide for International Jobseekers

If you are reading this, chances are you are considering a fisheries job in South Korea or are simply curious about the opportunities in this country. Perhaps you are like me—looking for a job to improve your financial situation, gain international work experience, and explore a new culture while earning a decent living.

South Korea is a nation surrounded by water on three sides; it’s a peninsula. The country has been one of Asia’s major players in the global fisheries industry. For many decades, fishing has been more than just an economic activity in Korea—it is deeply woven into the fabric of its culture and tradition. With a growing demand for seafood and an aging workforce, the country has increasingly opened its doors to foreign laborers, especially from Asia. Whether you are seeking a fresh start or looking to expand your experience in the fishing industry, South Korea could be the chance you’ve been waiting for.

In this article, I will provide you with a detailed and practical guide on fisheries jobs in South Korea. I will cover everything, from the types of jobs available, eligibility criteria, the application process and living conditions. If you are interested in this job and looking to further explore this path, read on to understand what to expect and how to prepare.

Why Foreign Fisheries workers are in High Demand in South Korea

South Korea has established itself as one of Asia’s leading economies, and its seafood industry plays a critical role in it. But now the fisheries industry is facing a workforce shortage due to the country’s aging workforce and younger generation opting for white-collar urban jobs. This leaves a gap in physically demanding sectors like fisheries.

To address this gap, the government has implemented programs like the Employment Permit System (EPS) to facilitate the hiring of foreign workers.

Why Choose South Korea

Many international jobseekers, especially Asians, are turning to South Korea for employment due to the following factors.

• Competitive wages
• Stable and legal employment
• Work visa support via the Employment Permit System (EPS)
• Workers’ rights and protection

Different Sectors in South Korea’s Fisheries industry

The fisheries sectors in South Korea includes:

• Deep-sea fishing
• Coastal fishing
• Fish farming (aquaculture)
• Seafood processing
• Equipment and machinery maintenance

South Korea’s Major Fishing Ports and Locations

The following fishing ports and cities are major hubs for commercial fishing activities.

• Mokpo
• Busan
• Tongyeong
• Incheon
• Ulsan
• Jeju

Types of Fisheries Jobs Available for Foreign Workers

You might be wondering: What kinds of jobs exist in the fisheries sector? The range of fisheries jobs available to international jobseekers is quite broad and varied. Here is the list of most common roles:

1. Large Vessel Fishing Crew Member (Deckhand)
   
   This is probably the most well-known fisheries job. Some people call it deep-sea fishing because the job involves working on a fishing vessel that heads far out into the ocean. You will be helping with everything from casting and hauling nets to providing navigation support and maintaining the equipment.
   It is physically demanding, and you will be spending a lot of time offshore, often in rough weather.
   
   If you like the idea of being on a boat and working with a team, then this could be a good fit for you.
   
2. Coastal Fisherman
   
   In this job, you will be on smaller boats operating closer to the shore, typically returning the same day. Jobs here include net casting, trap setting and boat maintenance.
   
3. Aquaculture Worker
   
   Aquaculture is basically fish farming that raises species like abalone, sea cucumber, and seaweed. You might work on land-based fish farms or sea cages. Responsibilities include feeding fish, monitoring water quality, cleaning tanks, and managing the health and growth of aquatic species.
   
4. Fish Processing and Packaging
   
   In this role, you will be working in a land-based factory where seafood is cleaned, sorted, filleted, packed and prepared for distribution. These jobs are ideal for those new to the industry or looking for land-based roles.
   
5. Maintenance and Technical roles
   
   In this job, you will be a skilled tradesperson. If you have skills in machinery, repair, welding, or maintenance, you might find opportunities maintaining a fishing boat or processing machinery. These roles pay better but require specific experience.
   

Workplace Conditions and Environment

Fisheries jobs are physically demanding and require stamina. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Working hours are long, often 10 to 12 hours
• Tasks may involve lifting, carrying, pulling and pushing, bending and standing for long periods
• You may have to work in a cold and wet environment
• Winter can be harsh in Korea
• Schedules may vary depending on the season
• You will have to get used to the smell of fish
• In offshore duties, worker stay in the middle of ocean for days and even weeks
• Workplace safety standards and policies are strictly observed, especially on fishing vessels

Salary and Benefits

Money is usually the main reason we consider working abroad, right? Wages for fisheries jobs are comparatively attractive:

• Entry-level jobs: For entry-level positions, typical pay ranges from ₩ 1.8 million to ₩ 2.2 million per month, which translates roughly to USD 1,350 to 1,700.
  
• Skilled Positions: For skilled positions, you can expect a salary of about ₩ 2.5 million to ₩ 3.5 million per month (approximately USD 1,800 to 2,700).

In addition to the base salary, workers receive the following benefits.

• Free or subsidized accommodations
• Health insurance
• Free meals during work shifts
• Bonuses based on performance or duration of employment
• Severance pay (If you work for more than one year)

Overtime work is common and paid according to Korean labor laws.

Eligibility and Qualification Requirements

If you are serious about working in the fisheries industry in South Korea, you should meet basic requirements. The requirements vary depending on the job, but here are the general expectations:

• Korean Language Test: This is the biggest hurdle: you should have at least basic Korean skills. For this, you should pass the EPS-TOPIK (Employment Permit System – Test of Proficiency in Korean) before you can get a work permit. The test evaluates reading and listening skills in Korean language.
• Age: Most fisheries jobs require applicants to be between 18 and 39 years old.
• Health and Fitness: You will need to pass medical tests to prove that you are fit for work because the work is physically intense.
• Education: No formal education is required. No degree is required, but basic literacy can help.
• Clean Criminal Record: This is a standard requirement for almost all work visas.

Certain jobs may also require:

• Some employers prefer candidates who have familiarity with boats and marine equipment
• job-specific certificates, such as safety training or food handling
• Prior experience in fisheries

Employment Permit System

South Korea has strict regulations regarding foreign workers. Jobs in fisheries are filled through the Employment Permit System (EPS), a government-to-government labor migration system designed to bring foreign laborers into sectors with shortages.
This system is managed by the Human Resources Development Service of Korea in partnership with labor departments in participating countries.

List of Participating countries:

• Bangladesh
• Cambodia
• China
• Indonesia
• Laos
• Mongolia
• Myanmar
• Nepal
• Pakistan
• Philippines
• Sri Lanka
• Tajikistan
• Thailand
• Uzbekistan
• Vietnam

Visa Type Under EPS

The visa under EPS is the E-9 Non-professional Employment Visa. It is typically valid for 3 years, with a possible extension. The contract may be renewed if both parties agree.

How To Apply?

The only legal and safe way to apply for a fisheries job (or any manual labor job like agriculture, farming, and manufacturing) in South Korea as a foreign worker is through your government’s designated labor agency under the EPS. Only your country’s official labor agency is allowed to register, test and recommend for jobs in South Korea.

Private agents, or direct job applications are not accepted for blue-collar jobs (E-9 Visa). It’s not just a policy—it’s a law in Korea. Employers cannot legally hire foreign laborers outside of the EPS, managed by the official Human Resources Development Service of Korea.

Why Korean Government Created This System?

• To protect foreign workers form exploitation
• Endure equal opportunity
• Prevent illegal migration and human trafficking
• Ensure fair wages and working conditions

List of Official Labor Agencies of EPS Partner Countries

• Nepal: Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE)
• Bangladesh: Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET)
• Philippines: Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA)
• Indonesia: National Agency for the Placement and Protection of Indonesian Workers (BNP2TKI/BP2MI)
• Pakistan: Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC)
• Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE)
• Vietnam: Department of Overseas Labor (DOLAB)
• Thailand: Department of Employment, Ministry of Labour
  …and similar agencies from other EPS partner countries.
  

Step-by-Step Application Process

Here’s how the legal and safe path works:

• Register with the official labor agency of your country. They will guide you and train you for the EPS-TOPIK test.
• Take the EPS-TOPIK exam.
• Obtain a medical fitness certificate.
• Once you pass the test and are medically fit, your profile will be sent to the candidate pool where employers will review it.
• If a Korean company selects you, you will receive a job offer, visa processing documents and pre-departure training.
• Travel to South Korea and start working.

Required Documents

• Passport and photos
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical reports
• Educational documents
• Certifications, if applicable

How to Avoid Scams and Illegal Migration

• Always apply through the official labor agency. Do not fall for offers from visa agents or employers—I can’t stress this enough
• Verify any job offer with the Korean embassy
  
  Illegal migration can ruin your chances of ever working abroad again and cause legal troubles like blacklisting, fines, or deportation.
  

Challenges You Might Face in Korea as a Foreign Worker

While fisheries jobs offer amazing opportunities, they come with challenges

• Language barriers can make it hard to understand instructions and integrate and connect with the locals
• Working conditions are harsh: long hours, unpredictable weather, and physically intensive labor
• Adapting to the Korean workplace culture may take time as it value hierarchy and safety compliance
• Jobs on boats and cage farming may feel isolating
• Being away from friends and family, you may feel homesick at times

What’s it like to Live in South Korea

South Korea can feel very different when you first arrive. The language, food and culture may be new, but it also offers many advantages, such as:

• Affordable and high-quality healthcare
• Clean streets and accessible public restrooms
• Super-fast internet and efficient public transport
• Major cities and ports have mosques and halal food stores, making life easier for Muslims
• Lastly, you will find communities of foreign workers from many countries, which can help you feel less alone
  

Conclusion

Fisheries jobs in South Korea present a great opportunity for international jobseekers, with competitive salaries, safe working conditions, legal protection and a growing demand for workers. This sector is ideal for those looking to work hard, learn a new language, and earn a decent living for their loved ones back home.

Whether you are from Asia, South America or Africa, opportunities in South Korea’s fisheries industry await you. Take the first step today: learn Korean, prepare your documents, and apply through the proper channels.

I hope this guide has given you a clearer picture of what to expect and how to get started.