The term ‘software freelancer’ refers to individuals who provide labor services in the areas of software development, design and production. (image: Korea Bizwire)
SEOUL, Jan. 6 (Korea Bizwire) — Freelance software developers, who remained a blind spot in the occupational health insurance system among economically dependent workers, will be entitled to the benefits of occupational health insurance.
The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced that the revised enforcement ordinance of the Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance Act passed the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday.
The revised enforcement ordinance that will take effect on July 1 features the inclusion of so-called ‘software freelancers’ among the individuals who are entitled to the benefits of occupational health insurance.
Among economically dependent workers, 14 different types of jobs, including insurance planners and delivery couriers, already benefit from occupational health insurance.
The revised enforcement ordinance added freelance developers, who typically work long hours, to the list.
The term ‘software freelancer’ refers to individuals who provide labor services in the areas of software development, design and production.
In more detail, software freelancers include software engineers, information technology (IT) project managers, IT consultants and IT architects.
There have been voices that pointed out the need to include software freelancers in the list of those subject to the benefits of occupational health insurance since they have a higher risk of being exposed to occupational diseases such as brain and cardiovascular diseases, carpal tunnel syndrome, and lumbar and cervical disc disease due to long work hours.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
