In March 2026, the number of entry-level job postings in South Korea plummeted by 45% compared to the previous year, signaling a significant shift in the job market. This decline is particularly pronounced in sectors like IT, telecommunications, and retail, where automation and AI technologies are rapidly replacing traditional entry-level roles. The data reveals a stark reality: companies are increasingly relying on AI to perform tasks that were once the domain of new hires, leading to a structural reduction in demand for entry-level positions.

The cybersecurity industry is facing a significant shift as companies increasingly prefer experienced professionals over fresh graduates. This trend is primarily driven by the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and the pressing need for immediate expertise in a field that is constantly evolving. Newcomers often find it challenging to secure positions, as employers are looking for candidates who can hit the ground running, especially in high-stakes environments where the cost of errors can be substantial.