This study explores the factors that “push” and “pull” unskilled Filipino migrant workers to resort to illegal migration in the Republic of Korea. 

Considered in the study are the inherent structural and economic problems in the Philippines and Korea that serve as push and pull factors for Filipino workers to resort to illegal migration. 

Poverty, income inequality and the high rate of unemployment in the Philippines push Filipino workers to seek employment opportunities abroad; while the receiving country, like Korea, which has a high demand for unskilled labor to man their industries, attracts or pulls the Filipino worker. 

Findings show that illegal migration in Korea proliferates because of the present migration policy that encourages Filipino workers to choose illegal entry or resort to illegal work. 

Meanwhile, small manufacturing firms pay illegal workers high wages to ensure continuous labor supply.  In addition, finding jobs through informal networks among migrants is readily available. 

In conclusion, push and pull factors interplay with one another.  What is vital is to understand the dynamics behind illegal migration and determine measures to prevent or, at the very least, minimize the incidence of illegal migration.