How Are High-Skilled Jobs Expanding in South Korea's Chip Industry?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In South Korea, the growth of high-skilled jobs is on the rise for the fourth consecutive year, particularly in the semiconductor sector. This trend reflects a significant shift in the job market, highlighting the importance of skilled professionals in various key industries. This article explores the implications of this growth and the government's efforts to attract foreign talent.
Key Takeaways
- High-skilled jobs in South Korea are on the rise for the fourth year.
- The semiconductor sector is leading this growth.
- Government initiatives aim to attract foreign talent.
- Over 60% of high-skilled workers are in key industries.
- The shipbuilding sector is recovering from a long decline.
Seoul, December 31 (NationPress) The count of highly skilled professionals in South Korea has increased for the fourth straight year in 2024, with the semiconductor industry leading this growth, as per government statistics released on Wednesday.
As of the end of 2024, the total number of industrial technology workers reached 1.74 million, reflecting a rise of 1.1 percent compared to the previous year, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Industrial technology workers encompass high-skilled roles such as technicians, manufacturers, IT specialists, research and development (R&D) staff, and corporate executives.
Last year represented the fourth consecutive year of growth in this workforce, according to the findings.
Over 60 percent of these high-skilled workers were engaged in the nation’s 12 pivotal sectors, including semiconductors, biotechnology, automotive, defense, and information technology.
The semiconductor sector experienced the most significant year-on-year increase in employment, soaring by 4.3 percent, followed by the biotechnology and IT sectors at 4 percent and 2.1 percent, respectively.
Moreover, the shipbuilding industry saw an increase in high-skilled jobs for the second year in a row, reversing an eight-year decline, as noted by the ministry.
Conversely, the textile sector's high-skilled workforce contracted last year, marking its fifth consecutive year of decline.
The shortfall of industrial technology workers in relation to business needs was recorded at 39,834, with a shortage rate of 2.2 percent, unchanged since 2020, according to the data.
In response, the government allocated 5.12 billion won (approximately US$3.58 million) from its reserve fund in October to bolster initiatives aimed at attracting foreign talent, following the United States' decision to increase visa fees for professionals.
This expenditure plan received approval during a Cabinet meeting led by President Lee Jae Myung.
The government indicated that this budget would support promotional activities to draw skilled international workers in light of the new U.S. visa policy.
Point of View
I believe the ongoing growth in high-skilled jobs, especially within the semiconductor industry, marks a pivotal moment for South Korea’s economic landscape. It highlights the urgent need for skilled professionals in key sectors and underscores the government's proactive measures to attract foreign talent. This trend not only strengthens our industrial capabilities but also positions South Korea as a competitive player in the global market.
NationPress
02/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What sectors are seeing the most growth in high-skilled jobs in South Korea?
The semiconductor sector is experiencing the most significant growth, followed by the biotechnology and IT industries.
How many industrial technology workers are currently employed in South Korea?
As of the end of 2024, there are 1.74 million industrial technology workers in South Korea.
What measures is the South Korean government taking to attract foreign talent?
The government has allocated 5.12 billion won to support programs aimed at attracting skilled foreign workers due to recent changes in U.S. visa policies.
What was the shortage of industrial technology workers in South Korea?
The shortage stood at 39,834 workers, with a shortage rate of 2.2 percent, unchanged since 2020.
Which industry has recovered from a long decline in high-skilled jobs?
The shipbuilding sector has seen an increase in high-skilled jobs for the second consecutive year after declining for eight years.
