Mapo Bridge in Seoul (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, March 6 (Korea Bizwire) — Only 41.1% of workplace-related suicides in South Korea were officially recognized as industrial accidents in 2023, marking the lowest approval rate in five years, according to data released on March 5.
The findings were presented at the National Assembly by Gabjil 119, a civic group addressing workplace abuse, and Representative Yong Hye-in of the Basic Income Party. The data, obtained from the Korea Workers’ Compensation and Welfare Service, showed that of 85 cases filed in 2023, only 35 were approved for workers’ compensation benefits.
The 2023 approval rate represents a significant decline from previous years, falling well below the five-year average of 51.9%. The rate has shown a steady decrease from 58.3% in 2019, 65.3% in 2020, 52.3% in 2021, and 45.2% in 2022.
“Workplace suicides often stem from overwork, unfair working conditions, and insufficient social safety nets,” Yong said during the presentation at the National Assembly Members’ Office Building. “We need fundamental reflection on workplace culture and labor environments.”
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
