John Baek, a 32-year-old engineer at Samsung Electronics, stated he is hesitant to reveal his workplace on first dates, fearing potential partners might only be interested in his income. The artificial intelligence (AI) boom has significantly boosted profits in the semiconductor sector. Baek expects to receive a six-figure bonus in USD this year, equivalent to several years' salary for an average worker.

Son Dong-gyu, director of matchmaking company Bien Aller, noted that on the dating market, Samsung and SK Hynix employees were previously ranked B+ or A. They have now approached the A+ category, on par with doctors, lawyers, or individuals from wealthy backgrounds.

Some Samsung semiconductor employees could receive bonuses of around 416,000 USD this year. According to Reuters, the average bonus at SK Hynix reached approximately 779 million won (547,000 USD). This significantly exceeds the average income of 29,800 USD for South Korean workers in 2024.

Employees at Samsung Electronics' Pyeongtaek facility, Gyeonggi province, South Korea. *Photo: Korea Times*

High incomes have made semiconductor industry employees a media focus. A Samsung engineer recently participating in a dating show garnered attention from three women simultaneously. The television program Saturday Night Live Korea also aired a skit about a man who received respectful treatment from luxury store staff simply by revealing his SK Hynix uniform shirt.

Meanwhile, many employees in the industry tend to date internally. Annie Kwon, a 26-year-old engineer at Samsung, stated she only dates colleagues from her department to ensure two sources of income. Similarly, a male SK Hynix employee declined a blind date arranged by an acquaintance, citing that company employees primarily date each other.

Income disparities create pressure for those outside the industry. Roh Hee-jin, a 27-year-old programmer at a small company, recounted having to save money to buy a computer for her Samsung-employed boyfriend, after he gifted her a 450 USD game console. She stated she could not continuously receive expensive gifts without reciprocating.

Income from the semiconductor industry also alters future plans. Edward Ji, a 34-year-old SK Hynix employee, stated his bonus enabled him and his wife to purchase an apartment and fund a business-class honeymoon, including a private helicopter rental in Australia. They plan to move to an apartment overlooking the Han River and start a family sooner than anticipated. "I am happy I can do more for my family," he said.

Additionally, Kelly Jeong, a 30-year-old designer, stated she does not regret breaking up with her SK Hynix boyfriend after three years. However, she admitted regretting not having bought company stock back then.

Ngoc Ngan (According to Wall Street Journal, Reuters)