'I'd rather stay an intern': Why some Gen Z workers in Korea are choosing less responsibility
For some young Korean workers, leaving the office on time matters more than finishing every task, and avoiding the responsibilities of a permanent position can be more appealing than climbing the corporate ladder. These attitudes are emerging among members of Generation Z, who are challenging workplace expectations long shaped by loyalty, overtime and deference to senior colleagues. In a…
Some young Korean workers are prioritizing leaving the office on time over completing all tasks, and prefer to avoid the responsibilities that come with permanent positions. This shift in mindset among Generation Z workers is challenging traditional workplace expectations that have been shaped by loyalty, working long hours, and showing respect to senior colleagues.
In a roundtable discussion organized by the Hankook Ilbo, members of Generation Z shared their perspectives on work, career progression, and interactions with colleagues, revealing both differences between generations and inconsistencies in their own work habits. While younger employees are increasingly seeking clearer boundaries and more explicit guidance, they sometimes find it difficult to meet these same standards when they are tasked with mentoring others.
For Korea's Generation X, who are now in their 50s, working late at the office used to be seen as a sign of commitment. In her 2000 novel "A Very Old Joke," acclaimed Korean author ...
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