K-Defense Industry's Export Boom Opens Wide the Door to Employment

LIG Nex1 Launches Triple-Digit Open Recruitment

Targeting University R&D Talent

Hanwha Aerospace Also Announces Triple-Digit Hiring

Hanwha Systems and KAI Signal Large-Scale Recruitment

The record-breaking export performance of Korea's defense industry, driven by the spread of global geopolitical risks, is revitalizing the job market. While most industries are tightening recruitment due to the economic downturn, major defense companies with clear improvements in performance are embarking on large-scale recruitment drives, especially for research and development (R&D) personnel, seeking to secure talent in the triple digits.

The booth of LIG Nex1, which participated in DSK 2026 held for three days from the 25th of last month at BEXCO in Busan. Provided by LIG Nex1

According to the defense industry on March 4, LIG Nex1 began its first-half open recruitment on March 3, which will continue until March 18, aiming to hire more than 100 new and experienced employees. Recruitment areas span all business sectors, including guided weapons (missiles), radar, unmanned and robotic systems, satellites, and artificial intelligence (AI). In particular, to secure R&D-focused talent, LIG Nex1 is aggressively conducting campus recruiting at 31 universities nationwide alongside its main recruitment efforts.

Hanwha Aerospace has also announced plans for triple-digit recruitment. A company representative stated, "We are always proactive in securing outstanding talent," and added, "Although it is difficult to disclose the exact number, the scale of recruitment is expected to be larger than last year." This is a preemptive hiring move to respond to increased personnel demand due to the rise in defense exports and expanded participation in national projects, as well as to strengthen technology development in the defense and aerospace sectors. Hanwha Aerospace achieved record results last year, reporting sales of around 18 trillion won and an operating profit of around 2 trillion won.

A mock-up of the Gray Eagle-STOL, a short takeoff and landing unmanned aerial vehicle jointly developed by Hanwha Aerospace and General Atomics in the United States. Provided by Hanwha Aerospace

Hanwha Systems has also signaled large-scale recruitment. While the company has not yet finalized the specific number, it confirmed that "a large-scale recruitment is planned." Last year, Hanwha Systems hired more than 100 employees and is now working to reinforce both research and development and business personnel in line with the expansion of its defense and ICT convergence businesses.

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) also plans to maintain its triple-digit recruitment policy this year, following last year's approach. This expansion aims to respond to increased demand for aircraft system development and growing export volumes.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.