South Korea is evaluating whether to expand and extend its caregiver program that bought Filipino household workers to the country. The program ends this month.

The program, initially launched in September to address declining birth rates, has faced criticisms over poor working conditions, low wages and reports of unauthorized departures.

A 2 February report from a Korean news outlet stated that a recent survey found lower participation interest in the program.

Seoul initially submitted a need for around 950 additional workers, but participation in other cities was lower, with Busan and Sejong requesting fewer than 20 each.

Initially, Seoul planned to increase the number of participants from 100 to 1,200 and extend recruitment to Cambodia and Vietnam.

The program’s early wage structure also did not meet South Korea’s minimum wage requirements, which led to retention issues.

In September, two Filipino workers illegally left their accommodation after the Chuseok holiday and were later found working for another employer in Yeonje District.

To prevent similar cases, authorities have mandated that Filipino housekeepers receive an hourly wage of KRW 13,940 (approximately P550).

Seoul City has also abolished the controversial 10 p.m. curfew, which had sparked debates over human rights violations.

Despite uncertainties surrounding the program’s future, Seoul City officials stated that, for now, the housekeeper project will continue with a primary focus on Filipino workers.

The Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers has yet to issue a statement regarding updates on the pilot program.