The recent report from the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family and the Ministry of Employment and Labor reveals a persistent gender employment gap in South Korea, with women’s employment rate trailing behind men’s by 16.2 percentage points. Despite a notable increase in the number of employed womenup by 188,000 to 12.65 millionthe overall employment rate for women stands at 54.7%, reflecting a slow but steady upward trend in female participation in the workforce.

Recent findings from Ulsan reveal a stark gender gap in work-life balance, highlighting significant disparities in employment rates, work hours, and stress levels between men and women. According to the Southeast Regional Statistics Office, the employment rate for men stands at 70.2%, while for women, it is only 48.6%. This 21.6 percentage point difference underscores the ongoing challenges women face in achieving equal participation in the workforce. Moreover, the data indicates that men work longer hours on average, clocking in 7 hours and 20 minutes on weekdays compared to womens 5 hours and 52 minutes.

The latest employment statistics reveal a significant shift in the workforce dynamics, particularly among married women. According to the National Data Agency’s report, the employment rate for married women aged 15-54 has reached an all-time high of 67.3%, a clear indication that policies aimed at supporting working mothers are making a substantial impact. This increase is not just a number; it reflects changing societal norms and the growing recognition of women’s contributions to the economy.