Korean students putting off graduation
A growing number of university students are postponing graduation until they secure a job. Remaining enrolled allows them to use campus facilities for job hunting. They also want to avoid a rushed job search, because a person's first job dictates long-term pay and career prospects. An analysis by the Hankook Ilbo confirmed this trend. The newspaper reviewed disclosures from AcademyInfo, a…
An increasing number of Korean university students are delaying their graduation in order to secure employment. By remaining enrolled, they gain access to campus resources that assist in their job search. Additionally, they aim to avoid a rush to find their first job, as the initial position can significantly impact future earnings and career trajectory.
According to an analysis by the Hankook Ilbo, this trend has been confirmed through data reviewed from AcademyInfo, a state-run higher education portal, and Ministry of Education information submitted to Rep. Jung Sung-kook of the People Power Party. Applications for programs permitting students to defer graduation have surged by 45.5% at eight four-year universities in Seoul, including Konkuk, Dongguk, Sogang, Yonsei, Chung-Ang, Hanyang, Hongik, and Ewha Womans University.
The number of applications increased from 4,825 in 2022 to 7,020 in April of this year. However, the actual figure may be higher than reported. The reasons behind these delays are attributed to concerns about resume gaps, as well as the loss of valuable campus facilities and benefits. The data excludes students who extend their studies beyond the traditional four-year timeframe by completing coursework without obtaining their diplomas or those who take longer than four years to complete their degree program.
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.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Korean students putting off graduation koreatimes.co.kr
