podcast

Fun Size: Why Teachers in Korea Can’t Take Sick Days

22.04.2026
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We’re back with another Fun Size episode.

This time, we’re looking at something that sounds simple on paper: sick leave. In Korea, it’s legally guaranteed. In reality, it’s often difficult, discouraged, or just not used at all.

From teachers paying out of pocket for substitutes to cultural pressure to keep working no matter what, the system doesn’t work the way it’s supposed to.

We also talk about a recent case that brought attention to the issue and why change may finally be coming.

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Credits

Produced by Joe McPherson and Shawn Morrissey

Music by Soraksan

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