The typical work hours in Korea are influenced by a 52-hour weekly maximum, but can theoretically reach 64–69 hours including overtime.
Understanding Korean Working Hours
Korean labor laws aim to regulate working hours to protect employees while allowing for business needs. Here's a breakdown of the key aspects:
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Standard Work Week: The standard work week is typically 40 hours.
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Maximum Work Week: The maximum work week is limited to 52 hours, including overtime.
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Overtime: Overtime is additional hours worked beyond the standard 40 hours.
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Theoretical Maximum: Including overtime, it's theoretically possible to work up to 64-69 hours per week.
Factors Affecting Actual Working Hours
Several factors can affect how many hours Koreans actually work:
- Industry: Some industries may require longer hours due to the nature of the work.
- Company Culture: Company culture can significantly impact the number of hours employees are expected to work.
- Job Position: Certain job positions, such as management roles, may demand longer hours.
- Enforcement: Strictness in enforcing labor laws regarding working hours can vary.
Example Scenario:
A Korean employee might work 40 standard hours plus 12-29 hours of overtime, totaling 52-69 hours in a week.
