YouTube: https://youtu.be/npoFkLbrqgQ
South Korea last month lifted all COVID-19 social distancing measures.
Unfortunately, for some, this means the return of mandatory workplace gatherings – ‘hoesik’ - and some are not pleased.
Hoesik is a traditional aspect of workplace culture and employment that requires company gatherings, bonding sessions, and weekend outings, typically held after normal working hours.
At one time the practice was seen as promoting unity and solidarity. Now, especially among the young, hoesik is seen as a form of unpaid labor and overtime. This perspective especially is held among those borne between 1980 - 2012, South Korea's MZ generation which includes both millennials and Gen Z.
For these, the gatherings reflect a work culture that is authoritarian and falling out of favor. Previous generations, however, believe hoesik fosters communication and teamwork and that hoesik is an important form of social currency.
Nevertheless, the pandemic forced South Korea to reevaluate this workplace practice. Officials placed the Greater Seoul area under tight restrictions in July 2021, shutting down bars, limiting nighttime gatherings to two people, and requiring some 30% of employees to work remotely from home.
Younger South Koreans enjoyed the impact of these restrictions on the work-life balance. They no longer were required to attend mandated social gatherings after the usual work week often consisting of 52 hours.
According to some younger workers, there’s been a transformation of workplace culture and a greater appreciation of individualization and individuality.
Unfortunately, some still feel pressured to participate in hoesik believing if they fail to do so, then their employers may view them as a bad fit for the company’s culture.
