The Arab Spring uprisings began in Tunisia in 2010 and soon spread to the Republic of Yemen, where, as a result, the long-term dictatorship was overthrown. The new government was unable to contain the rebels, and the resulting civil war has been ongoing since 2015. Numerous Yemenis need humanitarian aid as a result of this war, and some have fled to Africa, Europe, and to elsewhere in Asia.
More than 500 Yemenis arrived in 2018 at Jeju Island, South Korea. They were seeking a better life than that available in their war-torn country or in Malaysia, where some of them had lived. At that time, the island was visa-free for tourists, and the arrival of the Yemenis created controversy in South Korea.
Most of Yemenis at Jeju Island have not been recognized as refugees but have been granted humanitarian status and are currently living in South Korea. Because there are few job opportunities on the island, many have moved to the mainland to take jobs considered as 3D (difficult, dangerous, and dirty) work that Koreans tend to avoid. Even if their wages are low compared to those considered normal in Korean society, they can earn enough to send money to their families at home in Yemen or save up enough to get married. The government can use the presence of the Yemenis as a claim for the humanitarian orientation of the country. Finally, the companies that hire them can acquire more workers with cheaper wages. The Yemenis, the government, and the companies are all satisfied and are in a win–win–win relationship. In addition, there is an increasing number of people who are happy to help Yeminis; however, they also earn money and reputation from this situation. Hence, the presence of Yeminis has created a business for various players.
