South Korean universities are experiencing a significant increase in applications to company-linked degree programs that offer direct pathways to employment at major technology firms Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, driven by the ongoing boom in artificial intelligence (AI) [1]. For the 2026 regular-admission cycle, applications to Samsung-linked contract departments rose by 6.5%, while SK Hynix-linked programs saw an even larger increase of 12.7% [1]. These contract departments, developed in partnership with the companies, provide financial support to students and, in some cases, guarantee employment upon graduation. For example, students like Jung Chae-rin at Sogang University's Department of System Semiconductor Engineering are assured jobs at SK Hynix after completing their studies, while those in Samsung-linked programs, such as Kim Tae-rin at Sungkyunkwan University, benefit from increased employment prospects but must still pass a separate hiring process [1].
The programs are part of a broader trend, with data from Jongro Academy showing that the number of applicants to contract departments with large company tie-ups—including those with Hyundai Motor and LG Uplus—has increased by more than 38% year-on-year [1]. The competition for these spots is intense, as the AI sector offers lucrative pay packages and job security. Students report that the academic bar for entry is rising each year, reflecting the growing demand for these specialized tracks [1].
For Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, these partnerships help ensure a steady pipeline of skilled workers tailored to their needs in the rapidly evolving AI and semiconductor industries [1]. The companies collaborate with several top universities, including Korea University, Hanyang University, Yonsei University, the Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology, and the Ulsan Institute of Science and Technology [1].
While some entrepreneurs have questioned the value of traditional graduate programs in the age of AI, these leading tech firms continue to invest in university education, underscoring the importance they place on formal training and specialized skills [1].
CONCLUSION
The surge in applications to Samsung and SK Hynix-linked university programs highlights the growing demand for AI and semiconductor talent in South Korea. These company-university partnerships are intensifying competition among students and ensuring a robust talent pipeline for the country's leading tech firms. The trend signals continued corporate investment in specialized education as a strategic response to the AI boom.