Bank of Korea Says AI Shift Cut 285,000 Youth Jobs

The rapid adoption of generative AI is putting pressure on entry-level roles that traditionally help young workers build skills and advance their careers. The Bank of Korea said employment losses have been concentrated in sectors with high exposure to AI, including IT services and computer programming. The trend matters because a shrinking pool of junior positions could weaken career mobility, slow skill development and widen labor-market disparities between younger and older workers.

Employment among South Koreans aged 15 to 29 in highly AI-exposed industries fell by 285,000 over the four years since generative AI became widespread, according to the Bank of Korea’s latest report. Jobs held by workers aged 50 and older increased over the same period, suggesting employers are retaining experienced staff while reducing opportunities for younger recruits. The divergence indicates that AI is reshaping the workforce by compressing the lower rungs of the career ladder.