"Field Skills" Take the Stage... Gyeongbuk Showcases the Power of Expertise

Selecting Future Industry Talent in 51 Trades
Applications Open Ahead of April Skills Competition

Gyeongsangbuk-do is embarking on a full-fledged journey to find skilled technicians who will support the roots of the region's industries.

The Gyeongsangbuk-do Skills Competition Committee announced that it will accept applications for participation in the "2026 Gyeongsangbuk-do Skills Competition" for 12 days, from January 12 to January 23.

Andong City Hall

The Gyeongsangbuk-do Skills Competition is more than just a technical contest; it is a leading platform for discovering and nurturing outstanding skilled technicians who will lead the local industrial field. The event is held annually with the aim of boosting the morale of skilled workers and raising the overall technological standards of the industry.

This year's competition will be held over five days, from April 6 to April 10, across six cities and counties in the province: Gumi, Gyeongju, Pohang, Andong, Sangju, and Yeongcheon.

The competition will feature 51 trades across seven categories, including machinery, electricity, electronics, IT, design, architecture, crafts, and beauty arts, showcasing a wide range of technical capabilities from traditional manufacturing to new industries and service sectors.

Key trades reflecting changes in the regional industrial structure and future technological demand include polymechanics, CNC machining, industrial robotics, mechatronics, cloud computing, cybersecurity, game development, cooking, confectionery and baking, hanbok, and floral arrangement.

Anyone who has resided in Gyeongsangbuk-do for at least six months as of the competition date is eligible to participate. Prospective participants can apply online through the Meister Net skilled technician portal. However, those who have won prizes at the International Skills Olympics or the National Skills Competition may be restricted from participating, so prior confirmation is necessary.

Winners will also be provided with tangible opportunities for growth. The first, second, third, and excellence award winners in each trade will be selected as representatives of Gyeongsangbuk-do and will compete in the 61st National Skills Competition to be held in Incheon this September. In addition, under the National Technical Qualifications Act, winners will be granted the benefit of acquiring a craftsman certificate in their respective trades.

In particular, to encourage greater participation from workers who have honed their skills in the field, a preferential award system for workers will also be implemented. This system allows skilled personnel with practical experience to have their capabilities recognized through an official competition.

An official from the Gyeongsangbuk-do Skills Competition Committee stated, "The Skills Competition is the starting point for enhancing the pride of technicians and building sustainable competitiveness for local industries," adding, "We look forward to active participation from skilled technicians in the province."

For more detailed information regarding participation, please visit Meister Net or contact the Gyeongsangbuk-do Skills Competition Committee at the Korea Industrial Human Resources Corporation Gyeongbuk branch.