In a surprising trend amid the semiconductor boom and generous bonuses from companies like Samsung and SK Hynix, students are increasingly choosing medical or prestigious university programs over contractual studies linked to these corporations. Data from Jongno Academy reveals that 144 students offered contracts in Yonsei University and Korea University opted not to enroll this year, marking a 39.8% increase from the previous year’s 103 who did the same. Despite an increase in the number of available contract positions, the registration abandonment rate surpassed the growth of offerings, indicating a shift in student priorities.

Specifically, the contract program associated with Samsung's semiconductor engineering department at Yonsei University saw a significant jump in cancellations, with 62 students walking away—an increase of 47.6% from 42 last year. Similarly, the contract program linked to SK Hynix at Korea University reported 37 cancellations, a 76.2% increase compared to the previous year. This trend implies that while these contracts guarantee employment with major companies, students are prioritizing degrees in medicine or prestigious institutions over direct job guarantees.

The majority of those who withdrew from the contract programs reportedly chose to enroll in Seoul National University or other medical-related fields. Jongno Academy’s representative points out that acceptance patterns contributed to this phenomenon, as top universities often have overlapping acceptance rounds. Shifts in preferences among high-achieving students suggest a reevaluation of the value placed on flexible career options versus immediate corporate employment, reflecting broader societal trends influenced by educational prestige and job security.