Why I Chose the Path of a Solo Developer

Indie Developer

The Time I Wondered, “Should I Just Get a Job?”

Hello, I’m currently a junior majoring in Computer Science.
I originally worked in a completely different field, but I became fascinated with software development and decided to transfer universities to study it properly.

I hold two IT-related certifications, but I don’t have any standout qualifications or an impressive résumé.
I even made it to the final interview for a company I really wanted to join — but got rejected. (Still hurts 😢)

There was a huge spike in developer demand during the COVID era. With massive investments flooding the industry, there was a hiring boom and a general “developer craze.”
But now, the Korean job market is facing the cold aftermath of that boom. Developer hiring has slowed drastically.

Still, I believe getting a job isn’t the only way to make a living as a developer.

Why I Started Solo Development

Even when I was coding to get hired, I genuinely enjoyed it.
I learned the latest frameworks, built portfolio projects, and even created presentation videos while collaborating with team members.

But deep down, I always had questions:

“Do I really need to use this?”
“Isn’t MSA a bit overkill for a project this small?”

I didn’t want to build something just for show — I wanted to design what was actually necessary.

And honestly, I was always more interested in Python than Java.
It wasn’t about building something just to get hired — I found real joy in planning, designing, and creating things on my own.

Yes, I know I could learn a lot from working at a company. But my curiosity kept growing.
I started diving into Linux, Python frameworks, and before I knew it, I had a flood of ideas in my head.

And then I thought:

“Now that we have AI, and ChatGPT… maybe I really can build something alone.”

That’s when I made the decision — Let’s give solo development a shot!

But Reality Hits Hard

Let’s be honest — the financial burden is real.
To make ends meet, I work part-time as a data freelancer on weekdays.
It’s not much, but it helps me cover my living expenses, attend school, and fund the products I’m building.

And I’m truly grateful to have this job.

And Yet, I’m Hopeful

I truly believe we’re living in an amazing era.
Yes, entry-level hiring is down — but if you flip the perspective, this is also a time when AI enables individuals to become more than just a “junior developer.”

I may not be walking the most typical path,
but I’m ready to walk my own.

Thanks for reading, and please cheer me on! 🙌