AI · SEMICONDUCTOR · FACT CHECK
SKD WIREMostly True
Early admissions applications to Korea's four major science and technology institutes — KAIST, GIST, DGIST and UNIST — have surpassed the 30,000 mark for the first time, reaching an all-time high as student interest in AI and semiconductor fields surges.
Applications to the so-called four major science and technology institutes (4대 과기원) in the early admissions round reached their largest-ever volume this cycle, exceeding 30,000 applicants. The rise comes amid a nationwide boom in AI and semiconductor-related studies, which have become among the most sought-after career tracks for students.
The figure marks the first time applications to the group have broken the 30,000 threshold in the early admissions process.
The surge reflects growing demand for talent in AI and semiconductor industries, where companies including Samsung Electronics and SK hynix have continued large-scale hiring. Science and technology institutes have positioned themselves as primary pipelines into these fields, drawing increased competition for places.
The research summary did not provide institute-by-institution breakdowns or comparison figures from prior years, and the specific growth rate relative to last cycle remains unconfirmed in the available material.
A review of 12 primary sources judged the claim to be broadly accurate: the record application volume and the 30,000-person threshold were supported, though some finer details were not fully verifiable.
Verdict: Mostly True
