Seoul: Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok emphasized the pivotal role of public institutions in addressing youth unemployment, urging for intensified efforts to create job opportunities for younger generations. Speaking during a meeting with young job seekers, Choi highlighted the importance of employment as a form of welfare and identified youth unemployment as a pressing challenge for society. He noted that public sector jobs provide a significant foundation for youth employment.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Choi's comments come amid rising concerns over the significant drop in employment rates among younger demographics in recent months. Government data reveals that the number of jobs held by individuals in their 20s decreased by 202,000 in March compared to the previous year, even though there was an overall increase of more than 200,000 jobs.
Choi assured that both the government and public institutions are committed to leading initiatives that offer more job opportunities and work experience to young people. He further announced plans for public institutions to hire approximately 24,000 new employees within the year.