TLDR: A recent survey by the Bank of Korea indicates that over half (51.8%) of South Korean workers are now utilizing generative AI tools in their jobs, a rate nearly double that of the United States. While workers report some reduction in weekly hours, the overall productivity gains remain modest, prompting questions about the efficient application of the technology.
A new study released by the Bank of Korea on August 18, 2025, highlights a significant surge in the adoption of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools among South Korean workers. The central bank’s survey found that 51.8% of South Korean employees reported using AI at work, a figure that is nearly twice the 26.5% share observed in the United States. This rapid uptake positions South Korea as a leading nation in AI integration within the workforce.
The survey, which encompassed 5,512 employed South Koreans and was conducted until June 17, revealed that Korean workers also dedicate more time to these AI tools, averaging between 5 to 7 hours per week, significantly higher than the 0.5 to 2.2 hours reported in the United States. Despite this higher engagement, the efficiency payoff appears to be more modest than anticipated.
Respondents indicated that the use of generative AI tools resulted in an average reduction of 3.8% in time spent on work tasks, equating to approximately 1.5 hours in a standard 40-hour work week. This is lower than the 5.4% reduction seen in the U.S. If the time saved were to be reinvested into work, the potential productivity gains in South Korea would amount to about 1%, roughly in line with the 1.1% in the U.S.
Commenting on the findings, a Bank of Korea official stated, “South Korea stands out for the speed of AI uptake.” However, the official also noted a critical challenge: “But more than half of workers using AI reported no reduction in working time, meaning the key issue will be how efficiently the technology is applied.” This suggests that while adoption is high, optimizing the use of AI for tangible productivity benefits remains a key area for improvement.
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Broader analyses by the Bank of Korea also suggest that AI introduction could significantly impact the nation’s economy, potentially increasing South Korea’s gross domestic product (GDP) by up to 12.6% by 2050, offsetting declines due to labor supply issues. However, these productivity enhancements are largely concentrated among large corporations. Concerns also persist regarding job displacement, with estimates suggesting that around 3.4 million workers, or about 12% of the workforce, could be at high risk of being replaced by AI.
