South Korea holds 9th-grade civil service exam amid declining competition rates

Thousands of aspiring civil servants across South Korea took to examination centers on June 20, 2026, to compete for 9th-grade public service positions. The national written examination, a crucial step for entry into various local government roles, saw candidates gather at designated testing sites in 17 cities and provinces.

The overall competition rate for this year's recruitment drive is 6.1 applicants per position. This figure represents a continued decrease, as the rate has fallen for three consecutive years from a high of 10.7:1 recorded in 2023. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety reported that 141,546 individuals applied for the 23,390 available positions.

Geographically, the competition varied significantly. Sejong City emerged as the most sought-after location, boasting a competition rate of 12.5:1 with 953 applicants vying for 76 available posts. In contrast, North Chungcheong Province presented the lowest competition, with 5,407 applicants competing for 1,253 positions, resulting in a rate of 4.3:1.

Candidates braved the rainy weather, with many arriving early at venues like Duksung Women's High School in Seoul's Jongno district. The results of the written examinations are scheduled to be announced in July by each respective provincial government.