Boozing with the boss

26 January 2002

Koreans will soon be able to claim compensation for liver damage caused by
heavy after-work boozing sessions. Drinking with the boss is an established part
of corporate culture in South Korea, but it takes its toll on workers’ family
lives and health. So in March, the government will start classifying
drink-related illness as an industrial accident. “The change is not related to
our drinking habits, but to unique corporate culture and working conditions,”
says a government official. Job-induced asthma, skin diseases, hepatitis,
stress, depression and “death by overwork” will also be covered.