Proposal to exempt advanced industries from 52-hour workweek sparks backlash

South Korea's Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, Kim Jong-kap, has advocated for exempting advanced industries, including semiconductor research and development (R&D) and startups, from the nation's 52-hour workweek limit. He suggested incorporating special provisions for these sectors into the government's proposed "Mega Special Zone Act."

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We need to revise the working hour system across advanced industries, not just semiconductors, including R&D and startups.

Kim argued that such a move is necessary to compete with rivals, citing the example of Chinese IT workers who reportedly volunteer for extended hours. "The system should not forcibly prevent young people who want to work," he stated. While specific methods were not detailed, the ministry is reportedly considering excluding R&D roles from the 52-hour rule and implementing a "white-collar exemption" for overtime pay for high-earning researchers and managers.

However, critics contend that prolonged work hours can impair concentration, judgment, efficiency, and creativity, ultimately leading to burnout, reduced productivity, and increased employee turnover. There are also concerns that such deregulation in special zones could erode the 52-hour workweek framework across other regions and industries.

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The system should not forcibly prevent young people who want to work.

Labor unions have voiced strong opposition. The Korean Semiconductor Workers' Union criticized the proposal, stating, "This is asking workers exposed to hazardous chemicals in semiconductor fields to endure long hours of overwork." They argue that talent is essential for advanced industries and that creating a "labor rights blind spot" will deter skilled workers, ultimately hindering the success of the special zones.

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This is asking workers exposed to hazardous chemicals in semiconductor fields to endure long hours of overwork.