The number of economically inactive youth in South Korea is surging, exacerbating economic and societal risks as many voluntarily opt out of the workforce. This trend signals deeper challenges in the country’s labor market, education system and corporate culture.

According to Statistics Korea, the number of youths aged 15 to 29 choosing not to seek employment has reached 400,000. Of this group, a staggering 75% have no immediate plans to find work, while more than 260,000 individuals in their 30s are in a similar situation.