A representative who registered at a beauty academy by selling her wedding jewelry has become Incheon’s first beauty master. Jeong Hyang-ok, who raised two children while working part-time, was inspired by her ID photo and embraced the belief that "the best time to start is when you think it’s too late." After studying late into the night after work, she became Incheon’s first beauty master and later earned a doctorate and 21 qualifications, establishing herself as a beauty convergence expert.
The Ministry of Employment and Labor and the Korea Industrial Human Resources Corporation announced on September 9 that they held a ceremony in Seoul’s Yongsan district to commemorate '2026 Skilled Workers' Day.'
Skilled Workers' Day, designated as a legal holiday in 2023, aims to enhance public awareness of skilled workers and support their social and economic status. This year marks the fourth observance of the day, celebrated annually on September 9.
Under the slogan 'Hands that Built Korea, Leading the Future,' the event was attended by over 250 participants, including awardees and officials from the government, National Assembly, and skilled worker organizations.
On this day, 17 individuals who contributed to the advancement of skilled technology received government awards. Ten individuals were selected as Master Craftsmen of Korea across ten professions, while 55 individuals were recognized as excellent skilled workers from 34 professions, and three individuals were acknowledged as skilled technology transmitters from three professions. One exemplary business promoting skilled technology was also selected.
The ceremony included the presentation of certificates to the Master Craftsmen of Korea and the second cohort of 'Remarkable Craftsmen' totaling 55 individuals, along with technical demonstrations. In the afternoon, certificates were awarded to excellent skilled workers, skilled technology transmitters, and the exemplary business promoting skilled technology.
The Ministry plans to foster young people's dreams of becoming skilled workers through the 'Remarkable Craftsmen' development project and expand the foundation for promoting skilled technology. A regional skilled technology promotion center in the Yeongnam area is set to break ground in Ulsan by the end of this year, with completion expected in 2029.
Minister of Employment and Labor Kim Young-hoon stated, "K-skilled technology, which has led key industries such as shipbuilding, semiconductors, automobiles, and steel, is already recognized for its global competitiveness. We will spare no support to ensure that the passion and dedication of skilled workers lead to the leap of K-skilled technology."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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