Muslims complain about unfair treatment in Korean employment market

Muslim job candidates in Korea face discrimination despite Korea’s efforts to bring in more international workforce and fight against labor shortage, a local outlet reported.

The article mentions that Korean employers sometimes hold Muslim immigrants’ complexion, wearing hijab and observing certain religious practices against them, leaving them with few part-time job options, such as working in restaurants or packaging.

According to the report, questions about dietary restrictions, often asked during interviews with Muslim candidates, help employers identify their Muslim identity, adding that, candidates are often asked inappropriate and intrusive questions due to interviewers’ lack of knowledge about Islam.

Some Muslims say it is frustrating when they are evaluated based on their background, not on their individual capabilities or qualifications. 

In 2019, the Korean Muslim Federation estimated that there were about 135,000 Muslims in Korea, according to the U.S. Department of State.