Demand for Santa Claus jobs surges despite subdued holiday mood

By Candice Kim Posted : December 24, 2024, 15:03 Updated : December 24, 2024, 15:03
A Christmas event at a Lotte outlet in Seoul, Dec. 12/ Yonhap

SEOUL, December 24 (AJP) - Demand for part-time Santa Claus jobs has more than doubled this year, according to data from Danggeun Market, a popular local community platform.

Between Nov. 23 and Dec. 17, searches for keywords like “Santa role” and “one-day Santa” surged over 100 percent compared to the same period last year, with job postings experiencing similar growth.

The listings offer a variety of seasonal opportunities, from posing as Santa at kindergarten photo sessions — with a preference for candidates possessing “grandfatherly voices” — to delivering gifts door-to-door. Employers typically provide costumes and presents, easing the path for aspiring Santas.

Danggeun Market announced plans to curate Christmas-related temporary jobs by region, facilitating connections between employers and job seekers during the festive season.

“While we’re helping people find seasonal work, we’ve also seen an increase in heartwarming stories shared across local communities,” a company official said, highlighting features like neighborhood Christmas photo boards that have fostered engagement.

Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.