South Korea sees record share of women in new research roles by 2024

Women now represent nearly a third of new hires at South Korean research institutions. In 2024, 6,616 out of 20,739 new positions across 5,138 institutes went to female candidates. This marks a steady increase over the past decade in gender representation within the sector.

The share of women in new research roles has climbed gradually since 2015. That year, female scientists held just 7.8 percent of lead positions in projects. By 2024, the figure had risen to 13.3 percent.

Overall, women made up 32 percent of all new hires at Korean research institutes in 2024. The trend reflects a broader push for gender balance in scientific fields. However, exact numbers for women currently serving as lead scientists across public and private institutions remain unavailable.

The data shows a clear upward trend in female representation among new research hires. With women now filling nearly a third of entry-level roles, the shift suggests growing opportunities in South Korea's scientific workforce. The increase in lead positions also points to gradual progress in senior ranks.