Sickness Absence and Sickness Presenteeism in Korea: Implications for the Introduction of a New Sick Pay Scheme

Abstract

With covid-19 widespread, the need for a culture of taking sick leave has gained increasing social attention. However, the institutional framework is not strong enough to promote such a culture. Korea’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggested in March this year that the working conditions of workplaces must change to foster a workplace culture that supports taking days off when sick. Recent public health guidelines published by the government recommends first and foremost to “stay home from work or school when ill.” The Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act stipulates that the employer can give a hospitalized or quarantined employee a paid leave of absence, although by no means does this mean that the employer is required by law to grant the employee the right to take paid days off for rest.