Gyeonggi Province reported that a total of 2,377 people were re-employed this year through the "Light Job" program, which offers part-time work opportunities suitable for baby boomers.
Light Job is Gyeonggi Province's mid-to-late career employment brand, carrying the dual meaning that "the weight of work is light, but the value of baby boomers and companies shines again."
Among local governments, Gyeonggi Province was the first to implement this program this year. It is an employment support initiative designed to proactively respond to changes in the labor market and facilitate the social reintegration of baby boomers.
Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim Dong-yeon is talking with attendees at the Light Job business agreement ceremony held on February 19. Provided by Gyeonggi Province
Gyeonggi Province provides a monthly subsidy of 400,000 won per worker to companies that hire individuals aged 50 to 64, offering stable work environments such as 15 to 36 hours of work per week and coverage under the four major social insurances. Professional career counselors from the Gyeonggi Job Foundation assist with matching between companies and job seekers, reducing the burden of the hiring process.
As of the end of November this year, 596 companies are participating in the Light Job program, and 2,377 baby boomers have started anew in various industries, including distribution, manufacturing, transportation, and services.
Gyeonggi Province plans to further expand the employment culture for the mid-to-late career population by introducing new Light Job models, discovering quality jobs that match baby boomers' capabilities, and providing additional support to help improve their quality of life.
At the "Business Agreement Ceremony for the Promotion of Baby Boomer Light Jobs" held in February, Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim Dongyeon stated, "While many policies focus on youth and senior employment, there is no doubt that private sector jobs for baby boomers remain in a blind spot or are marginalized. It is no exaggeration to say that jobs for women, seniors, and baby boomers will determine the direction and fate of the Korean economy going forward."
He added, "I believe that the public sector and fiscal resources should play a priming role where the private sector finds it difficult to act. Gyeonggi Province will do its utmost to create jobs for baby boomers, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives and improve their quality of life."
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