South Korea’s workplace culture is rapidly evolving. In the past, overtime, hierarchical structures, and company dinners were considered the norm. However, with the rise of the MZ generation (Millennials + Gen Z) in the workforce, there has been a significant shift toward work-life balance (WLB), remote work, and horizontal corporate structures.
As of 2025, Korean workers are prioritizing reducing overtime, changing company dinner culture, and placing more emphasis on salary and benefits. But how much have workplaces actually changed?
This article will take an in-depth look at overtime trends, company dinner culture, salary structures, employee benefits, and the future of workplace culture in South Korea.
1. Is Overtime Really Decreasing?
In the past, working overtime was considered a normal part of South Korea’s corporate culture. In particular, large corporations, the finance industry, and the IT sector were known for long working hours, and there was a general belief that employees who worked overtime were more dedicated and loyal. However, in 2025, this culture is shifting significantly.
① The 52-Hour Workweek Policy Becomes Standard
The 52-hour workweek policy, which was introduced by the government as part of labor reforms, has now become well-established in most companies.
- Since its implementation in 2018, companies have been making efforts to reduce excessive working hours.
- Not only large corporations but also small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have adopted work hour tracking systems to comply with the policy.
However, there are industry-specific differences, and startups and IT companies that rely on project-based work still experience frequent overtime.
② The MZ Generation’s Resignation Trends and Rejection of Overtime
The MZ generation does not see overtime as "something to be accepted without question."
- They prioritize their personal lives.
- Many are willing to change jobs if they feel overworked.
In 2025, the trend of "quiet quitting" has become more prevalent, with young employees focusing on working efficiently within their designated hours rather than staying late.
③ The Rise of Flexible Work Policies
Flexible work arrangements are expanding rapidly, particularly in large corporations and the IT industry.
- Autonomous work hours: Employees choose their own working hours within a given timeframe.
- Alternative work schedules: Employees can adjust their work hours over a month instead of following a fixed daily schedule.
- 4-day workweek trials: Some companies are testing four-day workweeks to assess productivity.
Additionally, remote work has remained a viable option even after the pandemic, not just in IT companies but also in traditional industries looking to offer more flexible work environments.
2. How Is Company Dinner Culture Changing?
Company dinners (referred to as "hoesik" in Korean) have traditionally played a crucial role in corporate bonding in South Korea. However, in 2025, company dinner culture has significantly changed.
① Less Pressure to Attend & More Voluntary Participation
In the past, company dinners were often mandatory and led by senior employees or managers, but now, employees can choose whether or not to participate.
- More companies have implemented "optional attendance policies" for company gatherings.
- The MZ generation finds it burdensome to spend their personal time with colleagues and superiors outside of work hours.
② Shift Away from Alcohol-Centered Gatherings
In the past, company dinners were heavily centered around drinking, but now, they have evolved into various activities such as:
- Brunch meetings in conference rooms: Light meals during lunch breaks.
- Activity-based gatherings: Bowling, escape rooms, and board games instead of alcohol.
- Virtual company dinners: Employees order food from home and join video calls for informal chats.
③ Growing Respect for Personal Time
MZ employees dislike the "mandatory second and third rounds" of drinking after the main dinner.
Instead, many companies are reducing the frequency of company dinners or providing allowances as individual benefit points that employees can use as they wish.
3. Salaries & Benefits: What Matters Most to Employees?
In the past, getting a job at a large corporation was seen as the ultimate career goal. However, factors like salary, work-life balance, and benefits have become even more important.
① Salary Increases & Market Competition
Competition over salaries is heating up, especially in large corporations and IT companies.
- In particular, AI, software development, and data analytics roles are seeing substantial salary increases as companies try to retain top talent.
However, in SMEs and traditional manufacturing industries, salary growth remains slow, leading to a growing wage gap between industries.
② Prioritizing Work-Life Balance Over Salary
The MZ generation values work-life balance just as much as salary.
- As a result, companies are improving benefits such as:
- Flexible work schedules, remote work options, professional development funding, and employee benefit points.
③ Expanding Employee Benefits
To attract and retain talent, companies are offering increasingly competitive benefits. Some of the most common perks include:
- Flexible work hours & remote work support
- Comprehensive health check-ups and wellness programs
- Self-improvement stipends & book purchase reimbursements
- Enhanced parental leave & childcare support policies
Summary: South Korea’s Workplace Culture Is Evolving!
In 2025, South Korea’s workplace culture is undergoing significant changes.
- Overtime is decreasing, and the 52-hour workweek and flexible work policies are becoming more common.
- Company dinner culture is shifting, with a greater emphasis on voluntary participation and non-alcohol-related gatherings.
- Employees are prioritizing work-life balance, and companies are improving salaries and benefits to attract and retain talent.
As these trends continue, South Korean companies will need to adapt to the values and expectations of the MZ generation to create a more employee-friendly work environment. Workplace culture is expected to continue evolving in a positive direction in the coming years.