Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Real Reality]

Korean companies would do well to look at the country's drinking culture as a literal stumbling block to greater productivity, according to a recently completed research study. One in four Korean company workers are now in the early stages of alcoholism, the report said. Those polled said they often found themselves drunk, not through their own choice, but because of coercion from others, such as bosses or co-workers. About 70 percent of workers said the drinking culture in Korean companies is unhealthy, the institute said.
http://joongangdaily.joins.com/200409/22/200409222159138609900090509051.html

[princess]

Has anyone ever heard of saying "No"? Adults know how to say no don't they? Culture smulture...

[Real Reality]

About 47 percent said they are obligated to drink in order not to offend the group they are in.
http://joongangdaily.joins.com/200409/22/200409222159138609900090509051.html

[Swiss James]

I thought you were leaving?

[The Man known as The Man]

[Ya-ta Boy]

I once worked in a company with about 10 Koreans. One night we went out for dinner and drinks. Miss Choi needed to leave for a 'promise' with someone else. The manager insisted she drink a glass of soju with each of the other people. I don't know how she managed, but she did it. With about 7 glasses to the bottle she did a bottle and a half in about 15 minutes. Staggered out the door and made a pizza in the street.

She was worthless at work the next day. Of course.

I worked at another company where they had a bed for people to sleep off their hangovers. Productivity was not much of an issue there either.

I'm sure most people here have examples of where the drinking culture has interfered with efficiency at work.

I have noticed there is a growing number of young people who refuse to drink. But it seems an all or nothing kind of thing.

It's my observation that the tradition of e-cha ("second place") exists so the non-drinkers in the group can escape.