A major employment push for returning Cambodian migrant workers gained momentum on November 22, as more than 200 repatriated workers secured job matches with South Korean companies at a recruitment fair jointly organized by the Happy Return Center of Cambodia (HRCC) and the Employment Permit System (EPS).
The event, held at the National Incubation Center of Cambodia (NICC), drew the participation of 24 Korean firms operating in the Kingdom — a turnout that organisers say exceeded expectations after initial hesitation from employers.
“In total, 230 repatriated migrant workers attended the fair, most of whom previously worked in South Korea and brought home industry experience that local Korean companies are actively seeking,” according to a joint press release.
HRCC said more than 200 candidates were successfully matched on the spot, marking one of the highest match rates the centre has achieved to date.
“We are very encouraged by the response from both employers and workers,” an HRCC representative said.
“The high number of matches shows that Cambodian returnees with Korean experience are in real demand. We expect that the final recruitment figure will be confirmed next week, but companies have already signalled plans to hire at least 66 workers,” they added.
HRCC acknowledged that drawing Korean companies to the event was initially a challenge.
To overcome this, the centre conducted weeks of outreach — visiting Korean firms, promoting its vocational programmes and highlighting the skills returnees gained while working abroad.
The effort paid off, with companies not only attending but also setting up interactive recruitment booths and engaging directly with candidates throughout the day.
Ahead of the fair, HRCC provided resume editing, job-matching support and guidance on applying to Korean companies, aiming to prepare returnees for smooth reintegration into the local workforce.
Participants also attended information sessions on employment tips and listened to testimonies from workers who successfully transitioned into jobs with Korean firms in Cambodia, a segment that drew strong interest among jobseekers.
With momentum now on their side, HRCC plans to expand the job fair next year to accommodate more companies and a larger pool of returnees.
