Gov’t to get stricter on non-Korean marriages
The government yesterday announced it would tighten up screening measures for those wishing to wed non-Korean partners starting next year.Following a meeting presided over by Prime Minister Kim Hwang-sik with officials from related government offices, including the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, yesterday at the Central Government Complex in Sejongno, Central Seoul, the government unveiled the 2013-2017 General Plan for Multicultural Families.
The plan states authorities aim to strengthen measures to make sure those applying for immigration visas for multinational weddings are financially capable of supporting their partners.
Preliminary interviews for both soon-to-be grooms and brides will also be required to ensure both parties are willing to form a family to stave off phony partnerships.
The government also will inspect the marriage-broker industry to get rid of unregistered firms.
The plan also calls for making the personal information of those wishing to have international marriages available to authorities.
“The plan is not only for those choosing to immigrate to Korea for marriage but also for family members from different cultural backgrounds [that now comprise a portion of Korean society],” said Prime Minister Kim during the meeting.
In a move to encourage more active participation in economic activities by immigrants, the government also said it would provide financial aid for private firms that hire immigrants for their insurance coverage and basic labor costs.
By Kang Jin-kyu [jkkang2@joongang.co.kr]
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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