Equal Opportunities for Foreign Seafarers to Ensure Sustainable Development in the Korean Merchant Shipping Industry

Abstract

Despite the increasing number of foreign seafarers working in the Korean shipping industry and the growing concern for psycho-emotional stress due to discrimination in the maritime sector, few studies have focused on the working environment of foreign seafarers on South Korean vessels. This study aimed to determine whether foreign seafarers perceived discrimination in the Korean shipping industry and if so, the types of discrimination they faced and how they responded to this challenge. A survey was conducted to assess foreign seafarers’ experiences of discrimination, understanding of their own human rights, and level of satisfaction in working with Korean seafarers as well as identifying positive factors. The main positive findings included the kindness of colleagues, and excellent welfare facilities and benefits; whilst the most frequently reported negative factors related to language barriers and food types. These findings can be used to identify and share best practices and help determine priority areas for action. However, as the number of participants was small due to difficulties in contacting foreign seafarers during COVID-19 restrictions, further research is necessary to understand and improve the working environment of foreign seafarers on South Korean vessels.