2030s Quit Their Jobs: Why So Many Young Koreans Are Resigning

A growing number of young Koreans in their 20s and 30s are choosing to leave their jobs earlier than ever before. According to recent data from the Ministry of Employment and Labor, the resignation rate among workers in their 20s and 30s rose by 8.7% compared to the same period last year.

While landing a job in Korea remains competitive, many young employees feel trapped by stagnant wages, intense overtime culture, and a lack of clear career progression. In response, some companies are trying to adapt by introducing flexible work hours and remote work options to retain young talent.

Why It Matters
Many experts say this “quitting trend” reflects deeper structural problems in Korea’s job market. Wages have not kept up with rising living costs, making it difficult for young workers to save money or feel financially secure. This reality is pushing more people to seek side jobs, freelance work, or even prepare for startups rather than staying at one company for life.

Personal Perspective
“Currently, youth employment in Korea is a serious problem. The value of money is decreasing while living expenses keep rising, yet average salaries have not improved significantly. This is not just about individuals or companies — it’s a deep-rooted cultural issue in Korea’s economic system.

Blind money often flows quietly into the hands of a few, and healthy capital circulation is blocked. Small businesses and SMEs cannot easily raise salaries if they are just maintaining the average.

This isn’t only a generational issue — it reflects problems passed down from the 40s and 50s generation. Many do not have enough personal assets, including real estate, to feel financially stable. It will take systemic changes, not just individual effort, to solve this problem.”