Your Gateway to Employment in South Korea

The Employment Permit System – Test of Proficiency in Korean (EPS-TOPIK) has undergone a transformative journey from its roots as the Korean Language Test (KLT). This evolution traces back to the first Korean Language Test, which was integrated into the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Ministry of Labor of Korea on April 23, 2004.

Historical Context:
The MOU stipulated that the KLT would be set in motion starting August 17, 2005, specifically catering to individuals aspiring to work in Korea under the Employment Permit System (EPS). Initially, the sectors open to Filipino workers under the Korea EPS were primarily in manufacturing.

Evolution into EPS-TOPIK:
Over time, the KLT has transformed into the EPS-TOPIK, playing a pivotal role as an objective selection criterion for foreign job seekers in South Korea. This shift reflects a broader emphasis on proficiency in the Korean language as a fundamental skill for those entering the Korean workforce.

Implementation in the Philippines:

The implementation of the EPS-TOPIK in the Philippines falls under the purview of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), acting as the authorized agency of DOLE. In collaboration with the Human Resources Development Service of Korea (HRD Korea), this strategic partnership ensures the seamless integration of Filipino workers into the Korean employment landscape.

EPS-TOPIK stands as a testament to the dynamic nature of international employment frameworks. Its evolution from KLT underscores the commitment of both the Philippines and Korea to facilitate a streamlined process for foreign job seekers. As we continue to witness the ever-changing landscape of global employment, EPS-TOPIK remains a key player in opening doors to new opportunities for individuals seeking employment in South Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Minimum Eligibility Criteria for EPS-TOPIK Application

Minimum requirements (aligned with TOPIK exam eligibility):

• Age range: 18 to 38 (born between February 13, 1986, and February 12, 2006)

• No active placement in the EPS job roster

• Active roster expiring by September 2024

• Absence of recent application restrictions in the HRD Korea system

• Clean record without imprisonment or severe penalties

• No history of forced eviction or deportation from South Korea

• No travel restrictions or disqualifying factors for leaving the country

• Normal color vision (no color blindness or weakness) • Stayed in South Korea for less than 5 years or lacks experience, including both non-professional employment (E-9) and seafarer employment (E-10) visas

Online Registration for Factory Workers for South Korea Under Point-based System

EPS Advisory No. 1 Series of 2024 01 February 2024

Individuals Ineligible for EPS-TOPIK

Ex-Korea workers who have record of illegal entry, illegal stay, overstay or run-away

Those with physical defects like amputated fingers and slip disc

Those who have previous cases of tuberculosis and color-blindness (Ishihara deficient)

Applicants who have difficulty learning the Korean language

EPS-TOPIK Components and Required Points for Passing

Listening: 20 questions – 100 points, 25 minutes

Reading: 20 questions – 100 points, 25 minutes

Total: 40 questions – 200 points, 50 minutes

Testing Method: PBT (Paper-Based Test) & CBT (Computer-Based Test)

Test Structure: Multiple Choice Questions

Passing Score: Determined by HRD Korea

Registration for the EPS-TOPIK

Applicants must register online with the POEA (https://eps.dmw.gov.ph/) during given dates and provide several personal information including a scanned copy of passport bio-page and ID picture.

Examination Fee and Payment Procedure

The payment of US$24 in pesos is required and should be made according to the designated schedule through the online payment system (e-Payment).

Tips for EPS-TOPIK Exam Takers

Arrive at the examination site one hour before the test.

Provide your certificate of registration, proof of payment, and passport.

Pay close attention to the instructions given by the examination proctors.

Carefully respond to the examination questions.

Ensure that mobile phones are not brought into the examination room.

Refrain from attempting to cheat, as it may lead to disqualification from EPS – TOPIK.

Note that the EPS-TOPIK is conducted continuously for 50 minutes without any breaks.

Checking EPS-TOPIK Results

The results of the EPS-TOPIK can be viewed at the following locations:

www.poea.gov.ph

http://www.eps.go.kr or

http://epstopik.hrdkorea.or.kr

DISCLAIMER