Navigating the Korea Dilemma: Work, Education, and Society
As a Korean working in Korea, my life is a tale of sacrifice and daily struggle. According to the official schedule, my working hours are from 9 to 6; however, the reality is quite different. I often find myself working overtime until 8 or 9 PM, and if the workload is particularly high, it's common for my workday to extend to 2 or 3 AM. At the time of writing this, it's already 12:30 AM as I finish my work from home to submit documents to another company. Notably, I was informed that the recipient read my email at this ungodly hour. This is a common experience for many Koreans.
Is South Korea a Hell?
The term “hell Joseon” is a reflection of the essentially poor living conditions for many Koreans. Despite the country's moderate wealth, everyday life is filled with the daunting burden of education and work. Schools and workplaces impose heavy expectations, leading to a pervasive sense of frustration and anger. This emotional tension often leads to a culture of hostility and discrimination, where individuals project their frustrations onto others, often through violent hoaxes or gaejeols (violent verbal abuse). Many individuals are driven to seek out revenge or "gapjils" (revenge dramas) seeking emotional catharsis. It is important to note that while many condemn these behaviors, the reality is still harsh and filled with challenges.
Is the Complaint Justified?
The argument that these complaints are just a generation Y’s way of expressing dissatisfaction can be valid. The intense competition in the job market and education system indeed pushes individuals to strive for excellence. However, it is also undeniable that the national health insurance and infrastructure are among the best in the world. Real estate is undoubtedly expensive, but many cultures worldwide have similar expectations for young adults living with their parents until marriage. Despite these challenges, the prices in large cities like Seoul are still relatively manageable when compared to other global metropolises such as New York, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Singapore. It is also true that desirable jobs are hard to come by, often reserved for those who have the right skills and connections, such as those at Samsung and LG.
The School System and Beyond
Just as I discovered when I visited my home country, a new law had been implemented banning after-school tutoring centers or hakwons from operating after midnight. Interestingly, these hakwons often open as early as 5 AM, allowing students to attend before their formal school hours begin. This phenomenon reflects the intense competition not just in academic performance, but also in personal appearance and future job prospects.
Being a Korean American, my perception of the level of competition when visiting Korea is even more pronounced. The essence of competition extends to every aspect of life, including aesthetics and choosing the best profession. When I was dropped off at my cousin's high school, I observed a large number of hakwon buses bringing students early in the morning. This culture of competition is evident in every facet of life for Koreans, creating a society where everyone is constantly pushing the boundaries to excel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the challenges faced by South Koreans are real and substantial, but they are often exacerbated by a combination of societal expectations and personal ambition. Despite the harsh realities, it is essential to approach these challenges with a realistic yet hopeful mindset. By finding one's passion and focusing on long-term goals rather than immediate frustrations, individuals can navigate the complexities of Korean society more effectively.