Rising Preference for Large Corporations Among Young Koreans
A significant shift in the career preferences of young Koreans has been observed, with a growing number choosing large corporations as their ideal workplace. This trend marks the highest level of preference for large companies since the survey began in 2006. The change is largely attributed to the perception that these organizations offer more stability, including relatively higher wages until the age of 60, which is particularly appealing amid prolonged economic challenges and rising living costs.
On May 11, the Ministry of Data and Statistics released the results of the “2025 Social Survey,” which highlighted this notable trend. The survey, conducted between May 14 and 29 of this year, involved 34,000 individuals aged 13 or older. According to the findings, 28.7% of respondents aged 13–34 identified large corporations as their top choice for employment. This represents an increase of 1.3 percentage points compared to the 2023 survey, marking the highest rate recorded since the data collection began in 2006.
The preference for large corporations varied by age group. Those born around the time of the global financial crisis, specifically those aged 13–18 (born between 2007 and 2012), showed the highest interest in working for large companies at 34.8%. This was followed by individuals aged 19–24 (31.3%), 25–29 (25.4%), and 30–34 (25%).
In contrast, the desire among young people to work in government agencies has seen a steady decline. The response rate for those hoping to become public officials dropped to 15.8%, the lowest since the survey began. This decrease is linked to slower wage growth compared to large corporations, the relocation of major government offices—including the Ministry of Economy and Finance—to Sejong City after late 2012, and increased stress from handling civil complaints.
Historically, the preference for public sector jobs was much higher. In 2009, the response rate for those wishing to work as public officials reached 28.6%, and it had risen to 28.7% in 2011, just one year before the relocation to Sejong City commenced.
Another notable trend is the declining interest in entrepreneurship among young people. The response rate for those considering self-employment (startups) had steadily increased from 11.3% in 2017 to 15.8% in 2023 but fell again to 12.6% this year. Similarly, the preference for working at venture companies has been on a downward trajectory, dropping from 2.4% in 2021 to 2% in 2023 and further to 1.7% in 2025.
These shifts reflect broader economic and social changes in South Korea, where young people are increasingly prioritizing job security and financial stability over other career paths. As the country continues to face economic uncertainties, the appeal of large corporations remains strong, shaping the future of the workforce in significant ways.