WorkSouth Korean bakery worker death rekindles debate on overtime
Service industries thrive in wealthy, speedy society, but at a human cost
Delivery workers are seen in Seoul on Nov. 19. Demanding labor conditions in South Korean service industries are raising concerns about excessive toil. (Photo by Ahn Seong-bok)
KIM JAEWON
November 21, 2025 16:44 JST
SEOUL -- The death of a 26-year-old man who was employed at a popular bakery-and-cafe chain has reignited debate over South Korea's deep-rooted culture of overtime work, as grueling schedules expose the limits of the country's 52-hour workweek cap to protect service-sector employees.