Over 3.4 million young Chinese applied for the civil service exam in 2023, a record high driven by a desire for job security.
Applications increased by 400,000 from the previous year, reflecting a lack of appealing options in the private sector as youth unemployment remains elevated.
Despite economic challenges leading to salary cuts and unpaid wages for some civil servants, many young applicants still view these roles as prestigious and stable.
The government has not shown intent to reduce the size of public sector workers, essential for regime stability, even amidst local fiscal crises.
Calls for reform in China's bloated state sector continue as wage arrears become widespread, raising concerns about social stability and potential corruption.
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