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South Korea Aims to Cut Working Hours Amid Cold Snap

1/1/2026

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Story summary
  • South Korea plans to legislate in 2026 to reduce working hours, averaging 1,859 hours annually, by granting workers the right to disconnect after hours and formalizing half-day leave.
  • President Lee Jae Myung appointed Lee Hye-hoon, a conservative politician, as budget minister, signaling a ministry overhaul to curb power and boost growth alongside social welfare.
  • The moves come amid a harsh cold snap, with temperatures dropping and snowfall warnings across regions.