South Korea's young women workers face harsh realities amid minimum wage debate

South Korea's minimum wage for 2027 has been set at 10,700 won per hour, a decision that has ignited anger among labor unions. They had advocated for a higher wage of 11,450 won per hour, and their hopes were dashed by the announcement. Women's labor unions across the country issued a joint statement on July 15, expressing profound disappointment. "The majority of low-wage workers are women," they declared, adding, "We are overcome with deep rage and a strong sense of betrayal."

Young women, particularly those in their teens and 20s, find themselves in the most vulnerable position within the South Korean workforce. As living costs escalate and income inequality widens, these young women have limited avenues to improve their financial standing. They are known by various informal titles, part-timer, student worker, newbie, intern, temp, or even dismissive terms like 'hey, little lady' or 'bitch.' Their workplaces are diverse, spanning warehouses, bakeries, kindergartens, broadcasting studios, salons, call centers, convenience stores, and cafes.

Writer and activist Jeon Su-gyeong, associated with Solidarity for Workers’ Health, has undertaken a study to understand the contemporary challenges faced by South Korean women workers. While historical "factory girls" (yeogong) relied on stimulants during grueling shifts, today's young female workers often endure night shifts fueled by high-caffeine energy drinks. Despite facing criticism for allegedly misusing unemployment benefits, many struggle to even qualify for such support. The article points to systemic issues like wage discrimination against women in precarious positions, as highlighted by the Korean Women Workers Association and the Korean Women’s Trade Union.

Daughters from working-class families frequently shoulder the primary burden of household chores and caregiving. Simultaneously, many engage in physically demanding jobs, serving tables, washing dishes, or working overnight warehouse shifts, all while managing family responsibilities. Many young women interviewed by Jeon juggle multiple part-time jobs to fund their education. Sleep deprivation and strenuous physical labor have led to chronic pain at a young age for many. Their struggles are compounded by poverty, illness, the patriarchy, and hierarchical systems based on age and gender.

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The majority of low-wage workers are women. We are overcome with deep rage and a strong sense of betrayal.