The Era of 7 Million Working Seniors. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jan. 20 (Korea Bizwire) — Older South Koreans participating in government-sponsored job programs earned an average of about 405,000 won ($300) a month last year, with most saying the primary reason for working was to cover basic living expenses, according to a nationwide survey released Monday.
The study, published by the Korea Labor Force Development Institute for the Aged, found that food accounted for the largest share of participants’ spending, underscoring the program’s role as a safety net rather than a source of financial independence.
The survey examined nearly 3,000 people aged 60 and older enrolled in senior employment and social activity programs, along with 500 applicants who were not selected. The initiative provides part-time work — including caregiving, administrative support and private-sector assistance — mainly for recipients of the basic pension aged 65 and above.
Participants earned far less than their nonparticipating peers. Average annual income among those in the program stood at 12.8 million won, less than half the 29 million won reported by nonparticipants, indicating that the program largely serves seniors with greater financial need.
Women and older seniors were disproportionately represented: nearly 62 percent of participants were female, and about 40 percent were aged 75 or older.
More than half of respondents said they joined to secure living expenses, while others cited the need for pocket money or opportunities for social engagement. Nearly two-thirds said the program provided meaningful economic help, and overall satisfaction averaged 4.1 out of 5.
Yet the income remained limited. More than 70 percent reported receiving less than 300,000 won per month. Most said they hoped for expanded opportunities, ideally working about four days a week for roughly 3.6 hours a day, with monthly compensation closer to 600,000 won.
On Dec. 10, citizens line up to apply for jobs at the Mapo District Senior Employment Fair held at the Mapo District Office in Seoul. (Yonhap)
Beyond income, the program appeared to deliver social and health-related benefits. Participants reported a stronger sense of personal value and social presence than nonparticipants, as well as healthier routines. They were more likely to walk daily and eat regular meals, and they expressed slightly higher expectations for both lifespan and healthy longevity.
At the same time, the findings highlighted persistent vulnerabilities. Nearly half of participants said they could not use the internet, placing them among the country’s most digitally marginalized groups. Rates of loneliness and social isolation were also higher than among nonparticipants.
Medical costs posed another strain. Participants spent slightly more on healthcare each month, yet were significantly more likely to lack private medical insurance.
Despite the challenges, demand remains strong. Nearly all participants — and more than two-thirds of nonparticipants — said they hoped to take part in senior job programs in the future.
The results suggest that while the initiative offers limited financial relief, it plays a broader role in sustaining dignity, daily structure and social connection for older Koreans navigating an aging society with widening economic gaps.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
