Yoon issued a warning to North Korea, stating that the regime would face its downfall if it resorted to using nuclear weapons.

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 👀 Today’s Email about:

• One in five individuals has been unemployed for at least six months due to a mismatch between job seekers' expectations and available opportunities.

• Yoon issued a warning to North Korea, stating that the regime would face its downfall if it resorted to using nuclear weapons.

• BLACKPINK's Rosé has signed a solo contract with Atlantic Records.

NEWS 📰

One in five individuals has been unemployed for at least six months due to a mismatch between job seekers' expectations and available opportunities.

According to recent government data, one in five unemployed individuals in Korea has been unable to secure a job despite actively searching for more than six months, marking the highest figure since 1999 during the aftermath of the Asian financial crisis. This issue is particularly severe among the 15-to-29 age group, with many jobseekers citing low wages and unfavorable working conditions as reasons for rejecting available positions, pointing to a mismatch between jobseekers’ expectations and employer offerings.

As of August, 564,000 people were unemployed, with 113,000 of them—20%—actively looking for work for at least six months. This concerning figure is similar to the job loss trends seen during the COVID-19 pandemic when job cuts were rampant. The number of long-term unemployed has increased for six consecutive months since March 2024, highlighting a growing problem in the labor market.

Young adults in the 15-to-29 age group comprised 32.4% of the long-term unemployed, followed by those in their 30s (23.3%). Among those who remained jobless for over six months with less than a year of work experience, 24.7% said unsatisfactory working conditions were the main reason for not accepting jobs, while 26.4% cited the end of temporary or seasonal jobs. The wholesale and retail sector accounted for the largest proportion of their previous employment, followed by manufacturing and health care.

The number of individuals categorized as "on rest"—not actively seeking employment—also rose to over 2.5 million in August, a 10.6% increase from the previous year. This figure represents the highest August number recorded since related data compilation began 21 years ago, indicating further strain on Korea's labor market. Observers warn that if this trend continues, it may reduce the vitality of Korea's workforce.

Yoon issued a warning to North Korea, stating that the regime would face its downfall if it resorted to using nuclear weapons.

Meanwhile, North Korea denounced the latest U.S. B-1B bomber flyover as a "bluffing military show of force" and threatened retaliatory measures.

In a statement by Vice Defense Minister Kim Kang-il, carried on Tuesday by the North's state-run Korean Central News Agency, the regime warned that it could take unpredictable strategic actions in response to the deployment of U.S. strategic assets.

"Now that the U.S. has made the deployment of strategic assets a bad habit, we will inevitably and rightfully take unpredictable strategic measures. Fresh methods of adding serious concern to the security of the U.S. mainland will surely be produced," Kim was quoted as saying. "We can review and carry out such action plans at any time."

ENTERTAINMENT 🌄

Survey: Seoul’s Cultural Heritage Sites Need Fresh Content

Seoul's rich cultural heritage draws many residents, with nearly half visiting sites annually, but a recent survey by the Seoul Institute highlights a need for fresh content to attract younger visitors. Of 523 respondents, 47.6% cited repetitive content as the main reason for infrequent visits, while 34.6% found exhibitions unentertaining. Popular sites included Gyeongbok Palace and Sungnyemun Gate.

Researchers noted the need for innovative, experience-based programs beyond traditional viewing. The report recommends blending heritage with modern elements like performances, digital art, and immersive experiences to boost appeal and global tourism.

See You Tomorrow,

Unravel Korea!