Working Seniors

[Anchor Lead]

As life expectancy gets longer and longer in Korea, a growing number of seniors in the nation are willing to stay in the workforce as a way to earn a living and spend their twilight years in a more vibrant way. Here’s more.

[Pkg]

It's early in the morning, but Shim Eun-shik is ready to go to work. Every morning he helps an elementary school child go to school. He's a so-called "school commute helper."

[Soundbite] Yoon Ji-eun(Official in Charge of Senior Employment) : "We select school commute helpers from among senior residents who are over 65 and who live in the same neighborhood with children needing their services. We check their criminal records and have them submit their work reports so that parents can rest assured."

It has been three years since Shim started this job. In addition to bonding with the girl, Shim also feels rewarded for what he does.

[Soundbite] Kim Yu-jin(Elementary School Student) : "He's funny like my own grandpa and he treats me well."

[Soundbite] Shim Eun-shik(School Commute Helper) : "I like children and enjoy helping them get to school safely. It's very rewarding."

All of the employees at this cafe are over 65.

[Soundbite] "Here's your Americano."

They have received barista training with the help of a local welfare center. Although their job is full of challenges, they have regained confidence and vigor.

[Soundbite] Kim Jung-sook(Cafe Staff) : "At first it was hard for me to memorize the names of coffee drinks. But it's easy now. I enjoy each day at work."

This delivery company also hires only those who are over 65.

[Soundbite] "Thank you for calling us."

The staff visit customers immediately upon receiving their orders and deliver their packages right away.

[Soundbite] Yuk Seon-mi(Delivery Service Customer) : "It's cheaper than other delivery services, and the seniors work in a very responsible way."

Lee Myung-shik has been working here for nearly two years now. He says he finds his job to be very fulfilling.

[Soundbite] Lee Myung-shik(Courier) : "I feel good each time I accomplish my task. I feel relaxed and proud of myself."

As people live longer these days, more and more seniors want to spend their twilight years in a more rewarding way.