Latest South Korea’s Nonregular Worker Share Hits Record 38.5%

Minute Brief

21 Oct 2026

South Korea’s nonregular workforce reached 8.67 million in August, while the wage gap with regular employees widened to a record 1.94 million won per month.

21 Oct 2026

President Lee Jae Myung called on South Korea’s police to correct flawed practices and systems as their investigative authority expands, while emphasizing the need for an independent mechanism to review police investigations.

21 Oct 2026

A firefighters’ union has called on Gyeonggi Governor Choo Mi-ae to formally address controversial remarks about firefighting finances and strengthen support for the service after a fatal factory blaze.

Society

5 stories

South Korea’s Nonregular Worker Share Hits Record 38.5%

An empty generic staff changing room illustrates South Korea's growing nonregular workforce and wage divide; this is not a photograph of a specific workplace or workers. AI-generated illustrative image; not a photograph of the event.

Lee Urges Police Reform and Independent Review of Investigations

A conceptual empty investigation office and a separate review room illustrate calls for independent oversight of police investigations in South Korea; this is not an actual police facility. AI-generated illustrative image; not a photograph of the event.

Gyeonggi Firefighters Press Governor for Apology and Budget Action

Generic firefighters' protective gear and an unmarked fire engine illustrate calls for stronger fire-service support in Gyeonggi Province; this is not the actual station or incident. AI-generated illustrative image; not a photograph of the event.

South Korea to Adjust Work Hours and Flights for College Entrance Exam

An empty generic exam room with city transit and a distant aircraft illustrates South Korea's college entrance exam day preparations; this is not an actual testing center. AI-generated illustrative image; not a photograph of the event.

Five Citizens Honored for Subduing Suspect in Incheon Mall Stabbings