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South Korea Job Loss Over 8-Day Leave Request
19 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Foreign worker lost job after requesting eight days of leave.
- She experienced long hours, low pay, and boss's constant pressure.
- Korean companies usually allow a maximum of five consecutive days off.
A foreign national in South Korea has come forward alleging job termination after seeking an eight-day leave period. She described enduring a demanding workplace with extended hours, insufficient wages, and relentless supervision from her employer. The situation escalated when her leave request, exceeding the common five-day maximum for consecutive days off in many Korean firms, resulted in dismissal.
Her experience underscores the significant pressure and unique workplace challenges foreign workers may encounter. The incident has ignited discussions online, with many expressing solidarity and sharing advice on boundary setting and self-worth in professional environments. This case also brings attention to South Korean labor laws regarding annual leave entitlements and employee termination.
South Korean labor law generally protects employees from termination without justifiable cause and grants paid annual leave. However, employers can deny specific leave dates if it significantly disrupts business operations. The worker's situation has shed light on these complexities and the potential impact on foreign employees navigating different workplace cultures.
