In Jeju, South Korea, a striking paradox exists: the elderly population boasts the highest employment rate in the country, yet their wages remain alarmingly low. This phenomenon, often referred to as ‘working poverty,’ highlights a systemic issue where older adults are compelled to work not out of choice, but necessity. The stark reality is that many seniors find themselves in low-paying jobs, primarily in agriculture and manual labor, which do not provide adequate financial support for a dignified life.

In recent discussions surrounding employment rates in Busan, a stark contrast has emerged between the celebrated statistics and the underlying realities of the labor market. While the city proudly announced record-high employment rates, local council member Ban Seon-ho has raised critical concerns about the quality of these jobs, emphasizing that the focus should shift from mere numbers to the structural issues affecting workers’ lives. Ban’s analysis highlights a troubling trend: the increase in employment figures is largely driven by low-wage, part-time jobs and a significant decline in self-employed individuals.