Foreign student jobs in Korea are rapidly increasing as more international graduates choose to stay and work. A recent job fair highlighted this growing trend, with over 70 percent of foreign students expressing interest in Korean employment.
During the Global Talent Fair in Seoul, nearly 3,000 international students and over 100 companies participated. According to organizers, 356 students and 88 companies responded to detailed surveys.
Most students were pursuing advanced degrees. Nearly half studied for master’s programs, while around 10 percent worked toward doctorates. A significant portion, 26 percent, came from science and engineering fields.
Many students hoped to find foreign student jobs in research or administrative positions. Specifically, 34 percent chose research and development as their top goal. Office administration came next at 31 percent, followed by 27 percent who preferred sales roles.
Companies also showed strong interest in hiring international graduates. Around 65 percent of employers had already recruited students through past events. Many said their primary reason was to support international expansion.
Others valued the broader perspectives and diversity these students bring. Sales roles were in high demand among employers, with R&D and administrative roles also featured prominently.
Bachelor’s degree holders were especially favored by companies. In fact, 83 percent of businesses said they preferred undergraduate graduates over those with higher degrees.
To continue this momentum, KOTRA will launch regional job fairs in several Korean cities this fall. Locations include Busan, Ulsan, and Daejeon, where student populations are also growing.
Major corporations are responding too. Samsung Group has extended foreign student recruitment across nine affiliates. Hyundai Motor Group began internships that lead to full-time positions for standout candidates. Lotte Group is also expanding its internship-to-employment programs.
KOTRA officials believe tailored support for foreign student jobs can boost Korea’s global workforce. With growing demand from both students and companies, foreign student jobs are set to become a critical part of Korea’s economic strategy.
