Youth Unemployment Crisis in Canada and South Korea

The youth unemployment crisis is becoming increasingly pronounced in both Canada and South Korea, with young people facing significant challenges in securing entry-level positions. In Canada, the unemployment rate for youth aged 15 to 24 reached 14.7% in September 2023, marking the highest level since 2010, excluding pandemic years. This situation is exacerbated by a competitive job market, where many young job seekers, like 23-year-old Davia Figueira-Knight, report feeling unqualified for available positions despite extensive applications and networking efforts.

In South Korea, the demographic landscape is shifting dramatically, with the population of individuals in their 20s declining to 6.3 million, overtaken by those aged 70 and older for the first time since statistics began. The employment rate for this age group has also dropped to 60.5%, reflecting a broader trend of diminishing job opportunities and a preference among employers for experienced candidates.

While the number of people in their 20s is rapidly decreasing due to the aftermath of the prolonged . .

Several factors are contributing to the rising youth unemployment rates in both countries. In Canada, the ongoing trade war, particularly U.S. tariffs, has led to job losses in key sectors, notably manufacturing. Ali Jaffery, an economist at CIBC, noted that Ontario alone lost 38,000 jobs in the second quarter of 2025 due to these tariffs. The situation is compounded by an influx of new entrants into the job market, increasing competition for limited positions.

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Similarly, in South Korea, the sluggish manufacturing and construction industries, alongside a shift in hiring practices towards experienced workers, have created barriers for young job seekers. A survey indicated that 28.1% of college graduates hired by top companies were experienced workers, highlighting the challenges faced by new graduates.

While the number of people in their 20s is rapidly decreasing due to the aftermath of the prolonged . .

The pressure to secure employment is taking a toll on the mental health of young individuals. Figueira-Knight expressed feelings of burnout and discouragement due to continuous job rejections, a sentiment echoed by many peers who experience anxiety and self-doubt in their career pursuits. The constant comparison to others' successes exacerbates this emotional strain, leading to a cycle of isolation and discouragement.

In South Korea, experts warn that the barriers to entering the workforce could lead to broader societal issues, including a decline in marriage and childbirth rates, further impacting economic vitality. Kim Kwang-seok from the Korea Economic Industry Research Institute emphasized that the youth job crisis is not merely a generational issue but a significant threat to national competitiveness.

While the number of people in their 20s is rapidly decreasing due to the aftermath of the prolonged . .

In Canada, the recent job report indicated a modest recovery, with the economy adding 60,000 jobs in September 2023. However, analysts caution that this rebound may not be sustainable, as the unemployment rate remains high. The Bank of Canada is expected to consider further interest rate cuts to stimulate the economy, but the long-term outlook remains uncertain.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

In South Korea, the government faces increasing pressure to address the youth unemployment crisis. Experts suggest that without significant policy changes to improve job quality and accessibility for young people, the economic challenges will persist.

While the number of people in their 20s is rapidly decreasing due to the aftermath of the prolonged . .

• “It took a really big hold in my life because you’re just not feeling like you’re qualified for a lot of these positions, especially the entry-level ones that require so much,” — Davia Figueira-Knight, Social Services Student

• “The decline in the population and employment difficulties in their 20s are not just a generational problem, but a sign that shakes the foundation of national competitiveness,” — Kim Kwang-seok, Korea Economic Industry Research Institute

While the number of people in their 20s is rapidly decreasing due to the aftermath of the prolonged . .

The youth unemployment crisis in Canada and South Korea highlights the urgent need for targeted policies to support young job seekers. As economic conditions evolve, both nations must address the underlying factors contributing to this issue to ensure a stable and prosperous future for their younger generations.

While the number of people in their 20s is rapidly decreasing due to the aftermath of the prolonged . .