Trend Analysis
Economy
Employment
🔥 75
2026-02-11
January 2026 Employment Trends
National Data Agency
1Employed persons reached 27.986 million in Jan 2026, up 108,000 YoY.
2Jobs rose in health and transport but fell in agriculture and among youth.
3Unemployment rate rose 0.4%p to 4.1%, dampening job seeker sentiment.
📋 Key Findings
🔍 Background
This monthly survey analyzes economic activity characteristics, such as employment and unemployment. It serves as foundational data for establishing employment policies and developing human resources. This report highlights the labor market trends for January 2026.
📌 Key Points
The employment rate for those aged 15–64 was 69.2%, up 0.4%p year-on-year. By industry, the health and social welfare service sector saw an increase of 185,000 jobs, while agriculture, forestry, and fisheries decreased by 107,000. The number of unemployed persons stood at 1.211 million, an increase of 128,000 from the previous year.
📝 Implications
While employment grew among those in their 30s and those aged 60 and over, it declined for the youth population and those in their 40s. The rise in the unemployment rate to 4.1% (+0.4%p) indicates growing uncertainty in the labor market. Notably, the 'resting' population among the economically inactive increased by 101,000.
📝 Impact on Daily Life
Hiring in the health and welfare sectors is expected to be more active than last year. However, the threshold for youth employment remains high as the number of employed youth decreased by 175,000. Employment support services are expected to be strengthened for the growing population that is resting without seeking work.
📚 Glossary
비경제활동인구 (Bigyeongje Hwaldong Ingu)The population aged 15 and over who are neither employed nor unemployed.
고용률 (Goyongnyul)The percentage of the population aged 15 and over that is currently employed.
실업자 (Sireopja)Persons who are currently without work but have actively searched for a job in the past 4 weeks and are available to start immediately.
쉬었음 (Swieosseum)A state of being economically inactive for no specific reason, without preparing for a job, doing housework, or childcare.
구직단념자 (Gujik Dannyeomja)Discouraged workers who wanted and were available for work but stopped searching due to labor market conditions despite having job search experience.