The Effect of Socioeconomic Status on Mandatory Retirement Age System

The main purpose of this study is to provide an empirical analysis of the specific social classes affected by the mandatory retirement age system while the retirement age extension policy is actively being discussed. The analytical model was divided into two main categories. The first model analyzed socioeconomic status, which is determined by a combination of income, assets, educational level, occupational status, and housing type. The second model analyzed the impact of each socioeconomic status component on whether individuals are retired by the mandatory retirement age or not. To this end, this study was carried out on the using data from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA), specifically from the 1st(2006) to 8th(2020) survey and using an independent T-test, Chi-squared test, and logistic regression analysis. The main findings of this study are as follows. First, individuals with higher socioeconomic status were more likely to retire under the mandatory retirement age system than those with lower socioeconomic status. Secondly, as a result of isolating the socioeconomic status components, it was found that individuals with higher income, greater assets, and more consistent work schedules have a greater likelihood of retiring under the mandatory retirement age system. The suggestions of this study, based on the analysis results, are as follows. First, it is suggested that the mandatory retirement age system be based on industry or occupation. Secondly, it is recommended to gradually implement efforts aimed at ensuring a guaranteed retirement age system for non-standard workers. Finally, it is suggested to introduce sickness benefits or a family care system in order to deter early retirement.