Would You Move for an $80K Salary? Why Korea’s Gen Z Shuns Regional Jobs

Why Is Gen Z Avoiding Regional Jobs in Korea?

Did you know that over 60% of Korean Gen Z job seekers have no intention of working outside major cities? According to a recent survey by the job platform Catch, 63% of respondents born between the mid-1990s and late 2010s said they would not consider a job in a regional area. This trend is causing concern among policymakers and business leaders, as it highlights a growing disconnect between Korea’s youth and the country’s non-metropolitan regions.

The Main Reasons: Infrastructure, Family, and Fear of the Unknown

The number one reason for this reluctance is the lack of infrastructure. A whopping 55% of respondents said that poor housing, limited lifestyle options, and insufficient educational facilities in regional areas were dealbreakers. Another 20% cited the emotional difficulty of being far from family and friends, while 13% admitted to a general anxiety about living in an unfamiliar place. Only a small minority worried about limited job opportunities (6%) or career growth (5%) outside the capital.

What Would It Take to Move? The $80,000 Salary Threshold

So, what would convince Gen Z to pack their bags and head south? For one-third of respondents, the answer is clear: a salary of at least 80 million KRW (about $80,000 USD) per year. This is significantly higher than the average starting salary in Korea and reflects the perceived sacrifices of leaving Seoul. Other popular salary ranges that might tempt young workers include 50–60 million KRW (19%) and 40–50 million KRW (17%).

Why Do Some Still Consider Regional Jobs?

Not everyone is against the idea. Among the 37% open to regional employment, the biggest appeal is the belief that competition for jobs is less fierce outside the capital (29%). Others appreciate being closer to family members already living in those areas (21%), or see opportunities in specific industries located regionally (17%). Some are drawn by the promise of a better work-life balance (16%) or lower living costs (15%).

Community Buzz: What Are Koreans Saying Online?

If you scroll through Korean forums like Theqoo, Nate Pann, Instiz, and DC Inside, you’ll find a lively debate. Many commenters express frustration at the lack of investment in regional cities, saying, 'Why would anyone move if there’s nothing there?' Others point out that even high salaries can’t compensate for the inconvenience and social isolation. Some posts, however, highlight the benefits of regional life, such as less congestion and a slower pace, but these voices are often drowned out by skepticism. On Naver and Daum, popular blog posts echo these sentiments, with many young writers sharing personal stories of returning to Seoul after brief stints in the provinces.

The Seoul-Centric Reality: Why the Capital Still Reigns

Seoul’s dominance in Korea’s economic, cultural, and social life cannot be overstated. The capital and its surrounding areas (like Pangyo, Suwon, and Incheon) are home to the majority of top companies, universities, and entertainment options. In the Catch survey, 58% of Gen Z job seekers said they would only consider jobs within Seoul, and 52% would stretch to the broader metropolitan area. Only 17% would look at central regions like Daejeon or Gangwon, and a mere 10% would consider cities like Busan or Daegu.

Cultural Insight: Why Is This Such a Big Deal?

For international readers, it’s important to understand that Korea’s urban-rural divide is not just about geography—it’s about opportunity, status, and lifestyle. Moving to Seoul is often seen as a rite of passage for ambitious young Koreans, with regional cities sometimes unfairly stigmatized as lacking excitement or prospects. The government has tried for years to promote regional development, but the pull of the capital remains strong, especially among Gen Z, who value convenience, community, and career growth.

What’s Next? Can Regional Cities Become More Attractive?

Experts and community leaders argue that closing the gap will require more than just higher salaries. Investment in infrastructure, education, and cultural amenities is essential. Some suggest that companies should highlight the unique strengths of their regional locations, such as better work-life balance or industry-specific opportunities. Others call for a broader shift in social attitudes, so that living outside Seoul is seen as a valid—and even desirable—life choice.

Final Thoughts: The Challenge of Change

Ultimately, the reluctance of Gen Z to work in regional Korea reflects deeper social and economic trends. While money is a major factor, it’s clear that a sense of belonging, access to amenities, and career prospects all play a role. For now, unless regional areas can offer more than just a paycheck, Seoul’s gravitational pull is likely to remain unchallenged.