Recognition for Paternity Leave: South Korea

Asia Insight – Season 12

To combat a declining fertility rate, in recent years the government of South Korea has offered increased financial aid to parents who apply for leave from work. Although guaranteed paternity leave by law, many fathers discover that upon returning to work, they face overt harassment such as lack of promotions, or more subtle interference. In response, support groups aspire to create a legal framework that protects working fathers, and to change society's perception of them.