Over 20% of South Korean Workers Take 9-Day ChuseokHoliday
Seoul, South Korea – A recent survey by Korean job portal Incruit has revealed that one in four South Korean employees will enjoy a nine-day Chuseok holiday by combining their annual leave with the traditional holiday period.
The survey, conducted between September 3rd and 4th, polled 1,055 employees. A significant 25.7% ofrespondents stated they would take two days of leave following the Chuseok holiday, which falls on September 17th and 18th this year. This, combined with the weekend before and after the holiday, allows for a nine-daybreak. An additional 17.1% of respondents indicated they would take one day of leave, while 57.3% said they would not take any leave.
When asked about their reasons for taking leave, 40.2% of respondents cited resting at home as their primary motivation. This was followed by domestic travel (37.7%), returning to their hometowns for the holiday (24.7%), and overseas travel (21%).
On the other hand, those who chose not to take leave citedreasons such as heavy workload (33.6%), company discouragement of leave (27.8%), and concern about colleagues’ perceptions (20.7%).
The findings highlight a growing trend among South Korean workers to maximize their vacation time, especially during major holidays like Chuseok. This trend is likelydriven by a desire for extended rest and relaxation, as well as the opportunity to travel and spend time with family.
The survey also revealed that a significant number of job seekers are still actively looking for work during the Chuseok holiday. A separate survey conducted by another job portal, Saramin, between September 3rdand 10th, showed that 74% of job seekers will continue their job search during the holiday period. This suggests that the competitive job market in South Korea is driving many individuals to prioritize their career aspirations even during traditional holiday periods.
The Chuseok holiday, also known as the Korean Thanksgiving, is asignificant cultural event in South Korea, traditionally marked by family reunions, ancestral rites, and feasts. The holiday is a time for families to come together and celebrate their heritage.
The extended holiday period, often stretching beyond the official holiday dates, has become a popular time for travel and leisure activities. With the increasing popularityof long holidays, the South Korean government and businesses are facing challenges in managing the influx of travelers and ensuring smooth operations during these periods.
The survey results offer valuable insights into the changing work-life balance preferences of South Korean employees. They also highlight the ongoing pressure on job seekers in a competitive job market. As the holidayseason approaches, it remains to be seen how the government and businesses will respond to the growing demand for extended holidays and the challenges it presents.
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