How to Structure Your Korean Self-Introduction Letter for AI Screening
Prepare for ATS and AI-Based Recruiting Systems
Introduction
More Korean companies—from startups to conglomerates—are using AI 채용 (AI recruiting) or ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) to review resumes and 자기소개서 (self-introduction letters).
That means your beautifully written story might never reach human eyes… unless it’s formatted and worded the right way for machines.
In this post, you’ll learn:
- How AI reads your 자소서
- How to structure it for both robots and real recruiters
- What keywords and patterns to include
How AI-Based Recruitment Works (in Korea)
| Step | What the System Does |
|---|---|
| Keyword screening | Matches your 자소서 with job requirements (skills, traits) |
| Text scoring / sentiment | Evaluates tone, structure, and positivity |
| Similarity analysis | Flags copied content or generic answers |
| Consistency check | Compares with resume data (education, dates, etc.) |
Some companies use SK C&C’s “AI 커리어,” Lotte’s AI 서류 평가 시스템, or external services like 잡플래닛’s ATS tool.
How to Structure Your 자소서 for AI
1. Use the 4-Section Format Most Recruiters Expect
- 지원 동기 (Why you’re applying)
- 성격의 장단점 (Your strengths and weaknesses)
- 경험 및 역량 (Relevant experiences or skills)
- 입사 후 포부 (Your goals after joining)
Keep each section 400–600 characters (ideal for parsing), and clearly label each one.
2. Include Specific, Scannable Keywords
Match terms in the job description or 직무기술서 (JD). For example:
| If JD says… | Your 자소서 should mention… |
|---|---|
| 데이터 분석 능력 | “Python을 활용한 데이터 시각화 경험” |
| 팀워크 강조 | “협업을 통해 ○○ 프로젝트 성공적으로 수행” |
| 성실성 강조 | “작은 일도 성실하게 임하는 태도” |
3. Use Action + Result Format
The STAR method works well for AI and human reviewers:
Situation – Task – Action – Result
Example:
“졸업 프로젝트에서 리더를 맡아 4인 팀을 구성하였습니다. 일정 관리를 통해 마감 전까지 과제를 제출하고, 발표 점수 1위를 기록했습니다.”
4. Avoid These Common Mistakes
 Problem |
Better Option |
|---|---|
| Long sentences with no structure | Use bullet-style phrases with transitions |
| Flowery language (열정, 꿈 등 only) | Mix abstract with concrete results |
| Generic copy-paste text | Customize to match company culture and role |
| Unverified claims | Use numbers, tools, or real context |
Example Section (Experience & Skills)
경험 및 역량
“OO대학교 마케팅 프로젝트에서 콘텐츠 기획을 맡아 SNS 팔로워 수를 20% 증가시킨 경험이 있습니다. 또한 Google Analytics를 활용해 고객 유입 경로를 분석하여 광고 전략 개선에 기여했습니다. 팀원과의 협업을 통해 문제 해결 능력도 함께 강화하였습니다.”
Does the Company Use AI Screening?
Check for signs in the application process:
| Indicator | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 자소서 양식 제한 (e.g. 글자 수 제한) | Likely machine-read |
| 온라인 전용 지원 플랫폼 사용 | ATS system is being used |
| 1차 서류 합격자 통보만 있음 | AI pre-filters before human reading |
Final Thoughts
Writing for AI isn’t about sounding robotic—it’s about being clear, relevant, and structured.
Don’t try to cheat the system. Instead, align your self-introduction with the role, use strong action words, and show you’re a good fit in both words and data.
Think of your 자소서 as both a story and a search-optimized profile.
Need a downloadable AI-proof 자기소개서 template? Leave a comment or message us!
Next up:
What Does a Customer Support (CS) Role Really Do in Korea?