Do Koreans Work Seven Days a Week?

The notion that South Koreans work seven days a week has been a prevalent myth, but it is not a universal truth across the entire country. With a typical workweek ranging from Monday to Friday, many South Koreans work around 40 to 52 hours per week. However, the reality is more complex, with variations depending on the industry and specific job roles.

Industry Variations and Cultural Practices

While many industries adhere to the standard workweek, some sectors such as retail and hospitality may require employees to work on weekends. Additionally, certain companies maintain a culture of long working hours, leading to overtime on weekends. This has been a traditional aspect of many corporate cultures, although efforts are being made to combat this trend.

In recent years, the South Korean government has introduced policies aimed at promoting better work-life balance and reducing working hours. The standard workweek has been legally reduced, but the actual implementation can vary widely based on company culture and industry demands.

Factors Influencing Work Hours

It is important to note that the type of job one gets plays a significant role in determining their work hours.

Low-Income Jobs and the Minimum Wage

Few part-time and low-income employees work seven days a week due to the low minimum wage in South Korea. The minimum wage is currently around 10,000 won (approximately $9 USD), which is significantly lower compared to higher-paying jobs. A part-time employee working 8 hours a day would earn around $72, $360 for five days, and $1,440 for a month. Sustaining a living on such wages is challenging, especially given the high cost of living in South Korea. As a result, many individuals in low-income jobs feel compelled to work seven days a week to make ends meet.

Middle-Class Corporate Jobs and Overwork

For middle-class corporate jobs, the situation can be even more demanding. My friend, who worked in a mid-range plant, faced working over 70 hours a week. Despite being a valuable employee, the employer expected him to dedicate this time to the company, leading to significant burnout and stress. Moreover, while major corporations ostensibly comply with governmental regulations regarding working hours, the reality is different. Overtime is common due to fierce competition, and the traditional expectation is that subordinates cannot leave the office until senior staff members do.

Public servants, on the other hand, enjoy a more stable work-life balance. Unlike private sector employees, they are subject to government regulations regarding working hours and often work fewer hours. They also receive a stable salary and pension if they have worked for more than 20 years. The competition to become a public servant is extremely fierce, with a ratio of 100 applicants for one position. Nevertheless, the benefits of this career path, including a fixed working schedule and more predictable earnings, make it an attractive choice for many.

Government Initiatives for Better Work-Life Balance

The South Korean government has taken several steps to address the issue of overwork. Legislation has been introduced to limit working hours and encourage employers to provide more flexible work arrangements. However, the transition to these new policies can be gradual, and the progress is not consistently uniform across all sectors and companies.

Efforts are being made to create a more balanced work environment where individuals can focus on both their professional and personal lives. While significant changes are underway, the reality on the ground remains complex, with different industries and companies adopting varying approaches.

Conclusion

The notion that South Koreans work seven days a week is not an accurate representation of the entire labor market. While some sectors and individuals face demanding work schedules due to the minimum wage and cultural pressures, others can enjoy a more balanced work-life environment. As government policies continue to evolve, the hope is that these changes will lead to a more sustainable and equitable work culture for all South Koreans.