KUALA LUMPUR - Iksan City in North Jeolla Province, South Korea is stepping up efforts to position itself as a “global inclusive city” by recognising foreign residents as integral members of the local community.

The city said it convened its 2026 Foreign Support Advisory Committee on January 8, finalising 44 policy initiatives guided by four key strategic directions, The Business Asia Daily reported.

As of November last year, Iksan was home to 7,742 foreign residents, with more than 70 per cent in their 20s and 30s.

The city said the stable settlement of young foreigners is emerging as a potential solution to revitalise the local economy amid population decline.

Last year, Iksan secured long-term residency status for 71 individuals through the region-specialised skilled worker visa (E-7-4R).

Wonkwang University was also designated as an Early Adaptation Support Centre for Immigrants and a Foreign Caregiver Training University, strengthening its role in developing professional talent.

This year, the city will prioritise policies addressing the daily needs of foreign residents.

Key initiatives include childcare fee support for children aged up to five, multilingual living guides and QR-code posters, and the appointment of honorary foreign resident representatives.

Other measures include on-site human rights education at industrial complexes and the development of multilingual audio guides for city tours.

The city said it will also expand cultural and emotional support programmes for foreign workers and their children, areas previously underserved by policy.

Deputy Mayor Choi Jaeyong said the city aims to build a comprehensive foundation for settlement covering daily life, care and human rights.

“We aim to create a truly inclusive city where everyone lives together in harmony,” he said.