Let me start out by saying that when I was in the US applying for teaching jobs, I had no idea what the working culture was like. Nor did I know that working in South Korea was going to be so arduous. Also I didn't know that having a block schedule, e.g., a schedule where you work non-stop, was so important for health and happiness.
I'm often concerned about my physical and mental health.
On a typical day, I start work at 6:50 AM. I teach for 3 hours back to back, then have a two hour break from 10 -12. I usually pass out in a computer chair from 10:30 to 11:30. After my noon class, I go home to get as much rest that I can before going back to work and getting off at 9:50. Rinse and repeat, five days a week. On many occasions, I've worked 10 to 12 hours (with no overtime pay) in one day and only get 5 hours of rest for the next day.
South Koreans have an admirable work ethic on the outside, albeit one that borders on masochism on the inside.
Every month, many students tell me that they often work over 10 hours every day. In extreme cases, some don't sleep at home much during the week, see their children , or talk with their spouses for more than a few minutes. What's puzzling is they don't show much resentment for this kind of schedule, even after many years of doing it day in and day out. To them it's normal. It's even funny -- I've had whole classes chuckle, smile, or nod in agreement when talking about the insane hours they work. This lack of resentment seems like there's some sort of enjoyment that's derived from all the pain.
I don't mean to generalize to all my students. This is an observation from a good portion, but certainly does not apply to everyone. Most of my students realize that something needs to change. And of course I know realistically there's nothing that they can do by themselves to change a work culture that is a way of life.
Lots of alcohol + lots of work = anti-productivity?
I've had students who've shown up still tipsy to my 6:50 AM class. I've taught students who were drooling on their desks at 9 PM because of a 회식 that lasted until 5 AM from the previous morning. Rare, but it has happened on several occasions and is pretty funny.
Korea is a beautiful country with a lot to offer the world. But it desperately needs to learn how to nourish happiness and well-being in the workplace.
I think over time Koreans will find a more efficient, creative, and productive working culture that works for them, while still holding onto the values that are important. Perhaps after the current Baby Boomer generation retires. Hopefully it happens sooner rather than later. Good luck, Korea! Fighting!
At any rate, this is a deep topic that I will surely bring up again. Stay tuned for more posts! And don't forget to say hello and leave me a comment below!
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