The Republic of Korea (RoK) still requires a large number ofVietnamese guest labourers despite some minor labour issues, theVietnamese envoy to that country has said.
The Vietnameseambassador in Seoul , Tran Trong Toan, said around 15,000 Vietnameseworkers went to RoK this year, representing 32 percent of all expatriatelabour in the country.
"These figures show that the RoK needsVietnamese guest workers who are considered hard-working, sharp-witted,and quick learners.
"RoK remains one of the biggest markets for Vietnamese guest labour."
RoK has a minimum wage of 900,000 won, or 900 USD, per month whileVietnamese workers can earn 1,000-1,500 USD and sailors, 1,600-1,800USD.
The Korean Government assesses the country's economic growthannually and then decides the number of workers needed. It allocatesquotas to 16 countries that routinely send workers.
Vietnam used to get a third of the total number.
"The figures show the strategic relations between the two countries andat the same time indicate Vietnamese workers' competence," Toan said.
The Vietnamese Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs and theembassy in Seoul have drafted plans to reduce the number ofVietnamese workers illegally staying back.
According to figuresfrom the embassy, around 116,800 Vietnamese live in RoK, including66,000 workers, 45,000 who are married to Koreans, and 5,000 students./.