Seoul: South Korea’s major conglomerates on Thursday unveiled significant employment plans aimed at driving future growth and aligning with government policies for job creation. Samsung Group, one of the country’s largest conglomerates, announced it will hire 60,000 new employees over the next five years, with a particular focus on expanding its semiconductor, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence sectors.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Samsung’s recruitment efforts will involve nineteen affiliates, including Samsung Electronics Co., Samsung C and T Corp., and Samsung Biologics Co., which are actively engaged in the hiring process. The group has maintained an open recruitment program for entry-level workers since 1957 and plans to continue offering internship programs to provide young job seekers with experience, ultimately hiring those who meet their criteria.
Meanwhile, SK Group, South Korea’s second-largest business group, disclosed plans to hire an additional 4,000 workers by the end of this year. This is in addition to the 4,000 already recruited in the first half of the year. The group’s recruitment strategy is centered on attracting professionals skilled in AI and digital transformation. SK Group also revealed plans to expand hiring in anticipation of its new semiconductor cluster in Yongin, expected to commence operations in 2027.
In a similar vein, Hyundai Motor Group announced its intention to recruit 7,200 workers this year as part of its strategy to establish itself as a global mobility solutions provider. The company aims to increase its hiring to 10,000 next year, reflecting its commitment to expanding its workforce.
Hanwha Group, a conglomerate with interests ranging from chemicals to shipbuilding, stated it will recruit 3,500 workers across 30 affiliates in the second half of the year. This marks a significant 66.7 percent increase from the 2,100 employees hired in the first half. The majority of the new hires, totaling 2,500 employees, will be allocated to Hanwha’s three defense-related units: Hanwha Aerospace Co., Hanwha Ocean Co., and Hanwha Systems Co.
POSCO Group, a leading player in the steelmaking industry, also announced ambitious hiring plans. The company intends to create 15,000 jobs over the next five years, with this year’s recruitment target increased to 3,000 from the previously announced 2,600.