BEIJING - CHINA on Friday warned its citizens to be cautious before deciding to go and work in South Korea and not to have unrealistic expectations about pay and conditions due to the fallout from the global economic crisis.

China's Commerce Ministry said in a statement on its website (www.mofcom.gov.cn) that there were some 'uncertain factors' over labour cooperation between the two countries and that the two sides were still in talks, though it did not elaborate.

'Owing to the effects of the international economic crisis, there are some uncertain factors in the development of employment and labour cooperation between China and South Korea,' the ministry said.

'Those planning to go and work in South Korea should not let this affect the jobs and lives they already have and should appropriately grasp employment opportunities (but) be careful about their decisions and choices,' the statement added.

'Do not have overly high expectations about pay and working conditions for employment in South Korea,' it said.

The ministry also asked Chinese workers to be alert to illegal job agencies offering work overseas.

'Stay alert, don't be taken in by rumours, be careful not to be cheated and do not give money to any group, intermediary or individual,' it added.

China last month warned its workers not to venture to Central and Eastern Europe, including Poland, Romania and Ukraine, saying the financial crisis meant that they might go unpaid and suffer rights violations in these countries.

Chinese have for centuries left poverty at home to look for work abroad. -- REUTERS