Separate and Unequal: The Korean Dual Registration System and Human Rights Violation against Foreign Residents

Abstract

Korea is quickly changing into a multicultural society. As of 2017, more than two million foreigners are staying in Korea, 3.9 percent of the population. They are required to register themselves with immigration, just as citizens are required to register with government offices. However, the current dual registration system of Korea makes foreigners’ lives difficult and infringes their basic social and economic rights. This research aims to critically review Korea’s dual registration system and propose reformations. This paper consists of fiver sections including the Introduction and Conclusion. Section Two will introduce the foreigner registration procedure under the Korean registration system. Section Three will examine Korea’s human rights commitments and its violation of international legal obligations through the dual registration system. Section Four will analyze possible solutions and objections.