Middle-aged vocational training platform 천직 secures seed funding from 카카오벤처스 and 한국투자파트너스 to enhance its services and address the educational needs of an aging population in South Korea.

Information on the Target

천직, an online and offline platform for vocational training aimed at the middle-aged demographic, is operated by 에이지프리, led by CEO 김지현. The platform provides training in various fields such as interior construction, forklift operation, and pet grooming, accessible regardless of age or prior experience. 천직 connects individuals seeking vocational training with offline educational institutions across the country, allowing them to benefit from government funding schemes while also offering comprehensive information about job opportunities, training locations, and employment rates. Following their training, users can also receive support for re-employment and entrepreneurship.

Industry Overview in South Korea

As South Korea advances into a super-aged society, projected to have over 20% of its population aged 65 and older by 2025, the implications for the workforce and training sectors become increasingly significant. With the average retirement age below 50, many individuals face a substantial income gap until they reach the pension age of 65. This demographic shift presents both challenges and opportunities in the labor market as the older generation seeks to re-enter the workforce or start new ventures.

Currently, the demand for vocational training services is rapidly increasing in response to this trend. The traditional vocational education landscape has been fragmented and often difficult for older a