Heightened Security

[Anchor Lead]

The average age of skilled construction workers is 52. The aging of the construction workforce is a serious problem as few young people seem to be inclined to take on the physically strenuous job. KBS met with some young workers who are looking to the future despite harsh working conditions.

[Pkg]

This is a training site located at Namyangju Technical High School, the only such place in Korea designed to sharpen the skills of construction workers. 14 trainees are assigned to piling up bricks or masonry while nine apprentices are devoted to plastering. A total of 27 students toil hard in respective areas as sweat runs down their faces. They aspire to become skillful at construction work.

[Soundbite] Choi Jeong-min(Student, Namyangju Technical High School) : "It's fun and rewarding. (What kind of reward?) I can help build homes. It's good experience before going out to the field."

In connection with building firms, the Construction Workers Mutual Aid Association has made full-time employment guarantees for the students. They are hopeful as there are also many job opportunities abroad.

[Soundbite] Lee Si-hun(Student, Namyangju Technical High School) : "It's easier to land jobs. I want to learn more. Overseas job prospects are also bright."

The training is carried out in a strict apprenticeship system.

[Soundbite] "Push it this way."

Seniors with 20 to 30 years experience teach the students as if they are their sons and daughters. The veterans want to connect the learning site to the real work field. Due to prejudice against technician jobs, construction skills are on the verge of failing to be passed down to the next generation. However construction remains to be a promising sector also in the future.