The Incheon Metropolitan Government will confer the title of "master craftsman" on skilled technicians working in the region's industrial sites.
The city unveiled its selection plan for the "2026 Incheon Metropolitan City Master Craftsman" on Thursday. The title is granted to technicians who have honed their skills in a single field for an extended period and have been recognized for top-level expertise.
Master craftsmen have previously been named across various fields, including auto repair, surface treatment, confectionery and baking, and hairdressing. This year, up to 10 people will be selected, with one per occupation, across 85 occupations in 37 fields. Since introducing the program in 2017, the city has identified 17 skilled masters over nine years.
Skilled technicians with at least 15 years of experience are eligible to apply. Applicants must have their resident registration in Incheon as of the announcement date and have work experience in the relevant field. A record of contributions to technological development is also required, and those who have previously received the Korea Master Craftsman title or an award in the same field are ineligible.
Applications will be accepted for three weeks, from June 1 to June 19. Candidates must be recommended by county mayors, district heads, corporate executives, or association presidents, with submissions made to the city's Economic Policy Division. Only candidates meeting the criteria will be selected following document, on-site, and interview evaluations, with final results to be announced in September.
Those selected as master craftsmen will receive a certificate and plaque, along with a total of 10 million won in technical incentives over five years. They will also be honored with a relief sculpture installed at the "Hall of Master Craftsmen" in the central hall of Incheon City Hall Station.
"We look forward to active applications from those who have walked a single path of craftsmanship in the field," said Kim Sang-gil, head of Incheon's Economic Industry Division. "We hope the master craftsman selection will serve as an opportunity to elevate the social value of skilled technology and enhance the competitiveness of local industries."
