Overseas Koreans Cooperation Center to dissolve amid employment uncertainty

The Overseas Koreans Cooperation Center is scheduled to dissolve on September 30 following its integration with the Overseas Koreans Agency. However, 18 out of 36 employees face uncertain employment as they have not been transitioned to the agency through competitive recruitment processes.

The Association of Non-Transferred Employees expressed deep regret, noting that many staff members possess over 10 years of specialized experience but lack concrete job security measures. While the Overseas Koreans Agency has proposed additional recruitment for four positions and potential placement in other public institutions, the employees argue these measures are insufficient. They pointed out that most of the offered positions are fixed-term and require separate competitive procedures, which does not guarantee long-term stability.

The Overseas Koreans Agency stated that following standard civil service recruitment procedures is necessary to avoid violating constitutional rights to hold public office. The agency is currently discussing compensation plans, including honorariums for long-term employees, and aims to assist with job placements in related public sectors once budgets are secured.