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Director Yoon Seung-rim Reveals Shocking 'Abuse of Power' During Assistant Director Days: '700,000 Won Salary, Couldn't
๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท South Korea /Culture & Society

Director Yoon Seung-rim Reveals Shocking 'Abuse of Power' During Assistant Director Days: '700,000 Won Salary, Couldn't Go Home'

From Chosun Ilbo · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Music video director Yoon Seung-rim revealed harsh working conditions from his time as an assistant director.
  • He described earning 700,000 won (approx. $500 USD) and being unable to go home or rest during projects.
  • The revelations came during an appearance on the TV show 'The Boss Has Donkey Ears,' where his busy schedule was highlighted.

Music video director Yoon Seung-rim has exposed the grueling labor conditions he endured as an assistant director, revealing he earned a meager 700,000 won (approximately $500 USD) per month. During an episode of the KSB2 show 'The Boss Has Donkey Ears,' Yoon's demanding work ethic was on full display as he juggled projects with little time for personal life, even struggling to see his 14-month-old son.

He recounted instances where he was unable to leave work or even sit down due to the intense demands of the job. These experiences shed light on the often-unseen hardships faced by individuals in creative industries, particularly in the early stages of their careers. The director's willingness to share these difficult memories offers a stark look at the sacrifices made in pursuit of professional advancement.

I couldn't go home and I couldn't even sit down.

โ€” Yoon Seung-rimDirector Yoon Seung-rim describing his difficult working conditions as an assistant director.

The program highlighted Yoon's current busy schedule, which leaves him with minimal time for his family. His dedication to his craft, while impressive, comes at a significant personal cost, raising questions about work-life balance in high-pressure fields.

I earned 700,000 won.

โ€” Yoon Seung-rimDirector Yoon Seung-rim revealing his low salary during his time as an assistant director.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.