Japan and South Korea Unite: Expansion of the Working Holiday Program Announced

In a breakthrough meeting, Japanese and South Korean leaders announced their plans to expand their joint working holiday program. This scheme allows younger citizens from both countries to live and take up temporary jobs in the other. The planned measure aims to boost working opportunities and cultural exchange between these two Asian nations quarreling over historical grievances.

The working holiday program is well-received in Japan, where it is perceived as an avenue for cultural exchange and improved international relations. Through it, young Japanese people can grasp overseas work experiences while diversifying their social and professional networks. Also, locals enjoy the exchange brought about by incoming foreigners, broadening their worldview amidst a largely homogenous society.

In the EU and the US, similar programs exist, like the J-1 visa program in the US or the ERASMUS program in the EU. These programs foster exchanges between countries, with a goal of improving cultural understanding and providing varied employment opportunities.

Information for Your Country

For non-Japanese people interested in a working holiday in Japan or South Korea, some useful resources might be the official government information pages: Japan's MOFA guide and South Korea's Working Holiday Program Information.