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Some 17 percent of people with doctorates in science and technology are employed as non-regular workers in Korea, according to a study in 18 OECD members conducted by Korea Institute of Science and Technology Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP). The ratio of science and technology doctorate degree-holders working as non-regular workers in Korea was fifth-highest behind Denmark (23 percent), Australia (20 percent), Belgium (20 percent) and Estonia (20 percent).
Excluding those in a post-doctorate program, 13.5 percent of doctorate degree-holders in that field are working as non-regular workers. Park Jong-yong, vice-president at Korea Industrial Technology Association, said, "Doctorate-holders invited this situation themselves because they prefer working in certain areas," while "a widespread belief that they avoid working at small and mid-size firms has also contributed to this situation."
Given that the annual income of a doctorate degree-holder in science and technology in Korea amounts to W60 million (US$1=W1,362), they typically prefer working for large companies that offer generous wages. 36.3 percent of woman doctorates are non-regular workers aiming to work in a specific area compared to 12 percent of male doctorates.
(englishnews@chosun.com )
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