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Negative Impacts of the 52-Hour Workweek? Manufacturing and Small Businesses Hit Hard

Han Jiyeon

Published : Oct 14, 2026 10:28 AM

Video

[Economy 365]

The Korea Development Institute (KDI) has released an analysis indicating that the 52-hour workweek cap has had a negative impact on the performance of the manufacturing sector and small businesses.

According to KDI's analysis categorized by industry and business size, manufacturing firms and small businesses experienced declines in employment, sales, and labor productivity as it became more difficult to flexibly adjust working hours.

On the other hand, the service sector and large businesses were able to cope through flexible work systems and capital investments, meaning their corporate performance was not hindered, the analysis showed.

*This article was produced with AI audio.