'I feel sorry toward my parents': Youth job market remains a needle's eye
Koo, 28, who works on a contract basis at a large company, is growing anxious as the end of his contract approaches. Since his position does not offer the possibility of becoming a regular employee, he knows he must secure a job during the second half of this year. Until now, he has applied only to companies he really wanted to work for, but he is now prepared to consider any employer, including…
Koo, a 28-year-old contract worker at a large firm, is feeling increasing pressure as his contract nears its end. With no opportunity to transition into a permanent role, Koo must find employment before the second half of the year. In the past, he had only applied to companies he was truly interested in, but now he is willing to consider any potential employer, including startups.
Koo has observed a significant decline in job postings this year, estimating a reduction of half compared to last year. He expresses sympathy towards his parents and himself, as he does not want to return home for the Chuseok holiday. The Chuseok holiday is not met with enthusiasm among young job seekers in Korea. Despite Korea's economy recording its highest-ever growth rate, fueled by semiconductor exports, the path to employment for young people has become exceedingly narrow, akin to a needle's eye.
According to government data, the August employment rate among individuals aged between 16 and 64 years old stands at only 52.4%, highlighting the daunting challenge faced by young job seekers in the current economic climate.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
