“71% of Korean firms see AI replacing part of work… experts call for targeted policies for vulnerable groups”, 6 April 2026

Around seven in ten companies in South Korea have seen artificial intelligence (AI) replace approximately 10% of tasks across their operations. Experts noted that while a sharp decline in jobs due to AI has not yet materialised, the potential for AI to substitute human labour is expected to grow.

… Since the acceleration of AI adoption in 2023, employment declines have been particularly pronounced among young people in their 20s and 30s. In occupations with high exposure to AI, employment has effectively stagnated.

… Participants at the forum also highlighted concerns that AI could exacerbate existing wage inequalities. While higher-paid, professional workers — particularly men in their 30s — tend to have greater access to and utilisation of AI, part-time and low-wage workers, as well as women, are more likely to be excluded, increasing their risk of displacement in the transition.

Experts stressed the urgent need for “targeted” policy measures to support low-income and vulnerable groups.