Streamlining the job application process by introducing “digital badges” based on blockchain technology. (Image courtesy of Kobiz Media)
SEOUL, Apr. 5 (Korea Bizwire) – South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT has taken a major step towards streamlining the job application process by introducing “digital badges” based on blockchain technology.
On April 4, the ministry signed an agreement with several government agencies, including the Korea Internet and Security Agency (KISA), the Korea Employment Information Service, and the Human Resources Development Service of Korea.
Traditionally, job seekers in South Korea have had to endure the cumbersome process of printing out various certifications, transcripts, and course completion records from individual institution websites and attaching them to their job applications.
However, with the implementation of digital badges, all these documents can be managed and submitted electronically from a smartphone, eliminating the need for physical paperwork.
The agreement aims to integrate employment-related information from various agencies into a single digital badge service.
Under the terms of the agreement, the participating agencies will collaborate on linking, integrating, and verifying job-seeker data, promoting the use of verified information in the private sector, and ensuring interoperability between systems.
The Ministry of Science and ICT had already launched a pilot program on April 2 through its qualification examination site, Qnet, offering verification services for over 1,000 types of certificates.
Building on this initiative, the ministry plans to expand the digital badge system to include academic records, work experience, and training course completions, allowing job seekers to access and share all their credentials through a single web portal or mobile application.
“We will actively support and strive to ensure that the blockchain-based digital badge service provides tangible convenience and efficiency for citizens engaged in job-seeking activities,” said Lee Jong-ho, the Minister of Science and ICT.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
