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S Korea employers could face jail under harassment law

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Summary

South Korea has introduced new workplace anti-bullying laws with penalties that include jail for employers in some cases. The laws aim to stamp out 'gapjil', which refers to abusive conduct by people in positions of power. About 70% of employees in South Korea have reportedly been affected by workplace bullying. Employers are prohibited from taking any measures against victims or employees who have reported bullying and face up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 30 million won. Victims are able to apply for compensation if they develop health problems after being harassed at work. The government has published guidelines on the type of behaviour that counts as harassment, such as gossiping, verbal abuse, or forcing someone to drink. The legislation is in response to the 'nut rage' incident, which sparked a national debate about the Korean business system.

Q&As

What measures are employers prohibited from taking due to the new workplace anti-bullying laws in South Korea?
Employers are prohibited from taking any measures - including dismissal - against a victim or employee who has reported workplace bullying.

What are the penalties for employers who violate these laws?
Employers face up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 30 million won ($25,470; £20,355).

What type of behaviour is considered workplace bullying?
Examples of workplace bullying include gossiping about colleagues or spreading personal information, as well as forcing someone to drink, smoke or attend a company dinner. Verbal abuse or embarrassing colleagues in front of others are also listed.

How widespread is workplace bullying in South Korea?
Workplace bullying is widespread in South Korea with about 70% of employees reportedly affected.

What legal framework is in place to protect workers from harassment?
The legislation is aimed at wiping out so-called workplace "gapjil", which refers to abusive conduct by people in positions of power. The "nut rage" incident involving Korean Airlines executive was one high-profile example.

AI Comments

👍 It is encouraging to see South Korea taking workplace harassment seriously and introducing laws to protect employees from bullying. The government's guidelines on what constitutes harassment are also very helpful.

👎 The jail terms for employers found guilty of workplace harassment are too lenient and should be increased to ensure that employers are properly held accountable for their actions.

AI Discussion

Me: It's about South Korea introducing tough new workplace anti-bullying laws with penalties that include jail for employers in some cases. It marks the first time the country has required employers take action against harassment.

Friend: Wow, that's a really big step. What are the implications of this law?

Me: Well, it gives victims of workplace bullying more protection, as employers are prohibited from taking any measures - including dismissal - against a victim or employee who has reported workplace bullying. They face up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 30 million won ($25,470; £20,355). Victims will also be able to apply for compensation if they develop health problems after being harassed at work. There are also guidelines on what constitutes bullying, such as gossiping, forcing someone to drink or smoke, or embarrassing someone in front of others. So, this law is a major step in combatting the widespread problem of workplace harassment in South Korea.

Action items

Educate yourself on the new workplace anti-bullying laws in South Korea and the penalties associated with them.
Create a workplace policy that outlines the types of behaviour that are considered harassment and the consequences for engaging in such behaviour.
Encourage employees to report any instances of workplace bullying or harassment they experience or witness.

Technical terms

Harassment: Unwanted or offensive behavior that is directed at an individual or group, often repeated or persistent in nature.
Gapjil: Abusive conduct by people in positions of power.
Chaebols: Family firms that dominate the Korean business system.
Verbal abuse: Using words to hurt or insult someone.
Compensation: Money paid to someone as a form of reparation for a loss or injury.