This research attempts to (1) examine both trends and patterns of sex differences in labor force participation in Korea for the past three decades, and (2) identify factors contributing to such sex differentials in the labor market.

To achieve these objectives, the growth pattern of the female labor force and its intertemporal compositional shifts are analyzed, drawing heavily upon annual time-series data from the Annual Reports on the Economically Active Population Survey.

In order to identify the sources of sex differences in the pattern of labor force participation, cross-section data from the Report on the 1989 Employment Structure Survey are utilized. Sex differences in labor force participation are cross-classified and analyzed according to industry-occupation mix, age, education, years of experience, size of enterprise, and hours worked per week.

Policy suggestions to increase women's labor supply and reduce sex discrimination in the Korean labor market are discussed based on the principal findings of the present research.

Ⅰ. Introduction
Ⅱ. Significance
Ⅲ. Theoretical Discussion on Causes and Economic Effects of Sex Discrimination in the Labor Market
Ⅳ. The Method of Analysis
Ⅴ. Patterns of Female Labor Force Participation in Korea and Japan
Ⅵ. Change in the Structure of Korean Women's Labor Force
Ⅶ. Sex Differences in Occupational Distribution and Personal and Job Characteristics
Ⅷ. Summary, Conclusion and Policy Implications