Korean Workers Lead Global Peers in AI Adoption

A recent study commissioned by Google Korea has found that South Korean workers are using artificial intelligence (AI) at a much higher level of sophistication than their global counterparts. The report, titled 'Growth and Innovation in Korea Driven by AI,' found that Korean workers apply AI about 1.7 times more adeptly than the global average. This is according to data from Public First, a global consultancy firm.

The study also revealed that employers are increasingly prioritizing AI fluency in hiring, with 40% of surveyed workers saying companies favor applicants who can demonstrate AI skills. Furthermore, 35% of respondents named command of AI-based tools as the single most sought-after capability, ahead of adaptability and communication skills.

The report also highlighted the significant economic benefits of AI adoption in Korea. It found that training-driven productivity gains reach up to 4.7 million won ($3,404) per worker each year. Moreover, Google's products generated about 21 trillion won in domestic economic value and supported 130,000 jobs in 2025, with 13 trillion won coming from small and medium-sized enterprises.