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A growing number of young Koreans are opting out of the workforce, which is dramatically altering the nation’s labor market.
Many individuals, particularly those aged 25 to 34, are choosing to take breaks from their jobs, with some citing personal reasons such as focusing on mental health, further education, or starting families.
According to the Korea Times, the number of economically inactive individuals in this age group rose by 25.4% in 2024, reaching 422,000 people compared to the previous year.
This trend contrasts with the steady participation rates seen among the older working-age populations, indicating a clear divide between generations in terms of workforce engagement.
A key factor driving this rise is the mismatch between the expectations of younger workers and the availability of high-quality job opportunities.
Despite being more highly educated than their older counterparts, young Koreans are increasingly finding that the jobs they desire — often within large corporations or specialized industries — are out of reach due to fierce competition and limited openings.
The economic situation is also playing a role, with many young people working in industries hit hardest by the pandemic, such as small businesses and face-to-face service roles, where job security and wages are often lower.
These sectors have seen fewer opportunities for advancement, leading some young people to voluntarily withdraw from the labor market.
Experts warn that this growing trend could have long-term consequences, potentially leading to permanent disengagement from the workforce or a rise in “NEET” (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) status.
The situation reflects similar patterns seen in Japan during past economic downturns, where prolonged job insecurity for young people eventually contributed to a larger group of economically inactive adults.
To address this issue, analysts stress the need for targeted policy measures to help reintegrate young people into the workforce and ensure that their skills are utilized as part of the nation’s future labor supply.
