Design Manager Salary in Gwangju, South Korea
Gwangju's design sector offers a median mid‑level salary. The median mid‑level salary is about 5 million per year. Various local industries contribute to demand for design managers. Mid‑level managers also benefit from the cost of living in the city.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
₩35,000,000 to ₩44,000,000
Average (per year)
₩39,500,000
Graduates find roles in municipal projects or local tech startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
₩45,000,000 to ₩56,000,000
Average (per year)
₩50,500,000
Mid-level design managers work for technology and manufacturing firms in Gwangju.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
₩57,000,000 to ₩70,000,000
Average (per year)
₩63,500,000
Senior managers oversee design operations for electronics and automotive suppliers in Gwangju.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
₩72,000,000+
Principal design managers in Gwangju lead divisions at corporations or research institutes.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
₩19000 - ₩27000
per hour
Mid-level
₩28000 - ₩36000
per hour
Senior
₩37000 - ₩46000
per hour
Nationally, mid‑level design managers earn around ₩55 million, so Gwangju sits slightly below the average. Lower rent and food prices offset the gap.