Salary vs. Safety: Job Seekers' Priorities Differ by Employment Type in South Korea

South Korean job seekers exhibit differing priorities when choosing employment, with those seeking permanent roles emphasizing compensation and career advancement, while part-time applicants prioritize a safe and respectful work environment. A recent analysis by WorkSphere, comparing data from Job Korea and Albamon, highlights these distinct preferences based on employment type.

According to Job Korea's '2026 Corporate Preference Report,' full-time job seekers ranked 'salary and bonuses' as the most crucial factor (31.9%). They also considered benefits (15.2%) and opportunities for job growth (13.5%) when selecting a company, indicating a focus on both immediate rewards and long-term career development.

In contrast, a 2024 survey by Albamon found that a significant majority of part-time job seekers (54.1%) prioritized finding a job where they could work safely and without unfair treatment. This concern for basic working conditions outweighed the desire for higher pay, with only 34.6% prioritizing higher hourly wages.

WorkSphere attributes these differences to the inherent characteristics of each employment type. Permanent positions often involve long-term commitment, leading candidates to value compensation and growth potential. Part-time roles, typically shorter-term, see applicants focusing on fundamental aspects like contract clarity and safety protocols. To address these needs, Albamon is strengthening its trust-based verification system, including a '4-step safety checklist' and a 'summer safe part-time job' section for verified postings.

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If reasonable compensation is important to full-time job seekers, a safe working environment free from unfair treatment is paramount for part-time job seekers who are taking their first steps into society.