This study established a research model based on Theory of Planned Behavior in order to empirically analyze the factors affecting the employment intention of young job seekers, and additionally reflected perceived risk factors. In particular, it has been widely accepted that the negative perception of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) makes young people avoid employment. However, reflecting the fact that there are not many empirically analyzed studies, the perception of the surrounding people as a subjective norm was considered as important.Furthermore, this study investigated how the social perception of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) differs according to individual characteristics (gender, academic background, residential area) on the intention to work differently through the moderating effect.As a result of the analysis, it was confirmed that subjective norms had a significantly higher influence than perceived risk, personal friendly attitude, and behavioral control. In addition, in the case of highly educated or residing in the metropolitan area, the moderating effect of these social influences on employment intention was strengthened. This indicates that the negative perceptions of family, friends, colleagues, and social groups have a significant impact on young job seekers' decision-making to find employment in SMEs, despite an individual's favorable attitude toward employment in SMEs or sufficient competence. These results suggest that efforts to improve the social image of SMEs are not simply a means to match the policy assortment, but rather a policy that requires priority and continuous investment to promote youth job seekers' employment in SMEs.