This question is no longer a distant concern. AI is already replacing or reshaping human roles cross various fields. From customer service through chatbots, to document writing using generative AI, to autonomous vehicles and drones, AI is significantly impacting not only our daily lives but also the work environment.

Simple and repetitive tasks are increasingly being replaced by machines. In fact, jobs that follow set procedures—such as call center operations, accounting support, and document management—are being automated, as AI can handle them faster and more accurately.

According to a report by McKinsey, around 8 million jobs worldwide could disappear due to automation, with customer service, administrative support, and manufacturing being the sectors most affected.

However, AI is not merely taking away jobs—it is also creating new ones. For instance, AI algorithm developers, data analysts who craft strategies based on data, content designers who create chatbot conversations, and robot maintenance technicians are all professions that barely existed a few years ago.

Companies are adapting their hiring standards to match these changes. Many organizations now prioritize problem-solving skills, digital literacy, and creative thinking over simple technical knowledge. There is a clear trend toward seeking talent that can bridge different fields—for example, doctors who combine medical expertise with technology to develop diagnostic algorithms, or designers who integrate creative sensibility with AI tools.

This change doesn’t only concern adults. Students—the future leaders—must start preparing now as well. Experts suggest three key areas students should focus on to become future-ready talents: First, develop digital literacy, meaning basic technological skills. Tools like Python, Excel, and data visualization software are widely useful across many fields.

Second, strengthen creativity and communication skills—abilities that AI cannot easily replicate. Creating new ideas and collaborating with diverse people are becoming greater assets than technical prowess alone. Third, cultivate critical thinking about the limitations of technology. AI is not perfect, and its mistakes and responsibilities ultimately fall on humans.

In the AI era, both threats and opportunities coexist. Instead of worrying, “Will AI take my job?”, we should be asking, “What value can I create?”

※ External contributions may not be consistent with our editorial direction.

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