National Competency Standard Systems

This study analyzes the viability of adopting a national competency standard (NCS) system, which are currently being used in other advanced economies to provide a quality labor force equipped with vocational skills that are consistent with the needs of industry. The structure of this study is threefold. First, the motives, operational details, and various applications of NCS systems of other countries were examined. Second, an analysis of Korean standards of qualification, in short, similar policies to the NCS system that are existing in Korea, was carried out. Third, analytical frameworks were drawn from the comparative analysis of the advanced economies and Korea, as well as the results of a survey of the companies and labor-related organizations. Recommendations are made for the further development of the NCS system in Korea