Lawyers, counselors grapple with what AI can and cannot replace

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into workplaces, professionals in South Korea are grappling with its implications for their careers. A Seoul-based lawyer, surnamed Ha, has significantly reduced his hiring costs by subscribing to AI tools like Claude and Korean legal platforms, automating tasks such as reviewing precedents and drafting briefs. This shift mirrors a broader trend where subscription services are replacing the need for junior staff, raising concerns about the future of entry-level positions. Legal experts warn that without systematic preparation, AI could deepen polarization within the profession, creating an "AI pyramid" where senior partners capture more value while junior lawyers lose critical training opportunities. Meanwhile, psychological counselors, who rely on human connection, face less immediate threat from AI chatbots. While institutions are adopting AI for budget reasons, counselors emphasize that genuine human interaction and ethical judgment remain irreplaceable. Despite the rise of AI tools, the demand for human counselors is expected to grow as technology becomes more pervasive.

(Source：The Korea Times)