Foreign workers can now sign up for free Korean-language courses online without email applications

Foreign workers in South Korea on Employment Permit System visas (E-9) can now access free Korean-language education simply by registering online, without submitting an application by email. Courses covering everyday communication as well as workplace and safety terminology are available on PC and mobile.

The Korea Human Resources Development Service said Thursday it had revamped the registration process for its online Korean-language learning platform EPS-EDU, replacing the previous email-based application with a straightforward online sign-up for E-9 visa holders residing in the country.

EPS-EDU is an educational service designed to improve the Korean proficiency and workplace adaptability of foreign workers. It has been in operation since March last year, and this year expanded its target audience from job-seeking foreign nationals in the 17 countries covered by the Employment Permit System to foreign workers already residing in South Korea.

The curriculum includes beginner, intermediate and advanced everyday Korean, as well as industry-specific and safety-focused Korean for manufacturing, construction, service, fishing, and agriculture and livestock sectors. Common Korean courses on labor rights and industrial safety are also offered.

The platform currently provides 30 video lecture courses comprising 402 lessons, along with 190 AI-powered pronunciation and conversation practice sessions. Users can take level-assessment and achievement tests, and an AI teaching assistant enables real-time question-and-answer sessions and quiz-based learning based on lecture content.

All courses are free. The platform is accessible 24 hours a day on PC and mobile, allowing workers to study around their schedules.

Foreign workers wishing to use the service can visit the EPS-EDU website at epsedu.masterk1.com, register for an account and begin studying immediately. However, access may be suspended if an E-9 visa cannot be verified.

"We hope EPS-EDU will help foreign workers improve their Korean and communicate more smoothly in their daily lives and at work," said Lee Byung-hoon, president of the Korea Human Resources Development Service. "We will continue to provide a range of educational services to support foreign workers in settling stably in Korea and adapting to their working environment."