In South Korea, job-related conflict is growing between young adults (20s–30s) and older generations (40s–50s).
From the younger generation’s view, finding a decent job is harder than ever. To cut costs, companies prefer experienced hires and cut entry-level roles, while AI replaces starter tasks. Starting in low-paying jobs with little growth rarely leads to better opportunities, making homeownership or social mobility nearly impossible. As a result, many choose to take a break and build qualifications rather than accept jobs with uncertain futures.
On the other hand, from the perspective of many in the 40s and 50s generation, they built their careers by enduring brutal working hours, harsh conditions, and unfairness to support their families. Based on their experience of starting at the bottom and working their way up, they often feel frustrated by today’s youth, viewing them as being too picky, unwilling to do tough manual labor, and quick to quit over minor discomforts instead of toughing it out.
This friction has fueled online hostility. Older people label unemployed youth as “resting youth” (NEETs), viewing them as lazy or unwilling to work, while young people dismiss certain older workers as “Young Forty,” viewing them as cringey, creepy, or out of touch.
The issue isn’t just a clash of mindsets, but a hard reality shaped by a shifting economy.
Do you see similar generational conflicts or job market issues in your country? What are your thoughts on this?
submitted by /u/Zelda_2026
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