AI is changing jobs faster than expected—young workers suffer most

Artificial intelligence (AI) — computer systems that can learn and make decisions — is transforming the workplace at a speed that's catching many people off guard. According to research from South Korea's central bank, the Bank of Korea, this shift is happening faster than economists expected just a few years ago.

The hardest hit? Young workers aged 15 to 29. These are the people just starting their careers, and they're discovering that many of the entry-level jobs — the basic, starting positions that have traditionally been how young people break into the working world — are disappearing. Jobs in customer service, data entry, basic administrative work, and similar roles are being automated (taken over by AI systems) across many industries.

Why does this matter? Entry-level jobs aren't just about earning money. They're how young people gain experience, develop skills, and build the foundation for better careers later. When these jobs vanish, young workers have fewer rungs on the career ladder to climb. This could have ripple effects for years, potentially leaving an entire generation less prepared and less experienced for higher-level positions.

The challenge is real and urgent. Companies are adopting AI tools faster than governments and schools are preparing young people for the jobs that will remain. Without action—like better education in AI-related skills or support programs for young workers—we could see a significant gap between job availability and the skills young people have.