The Quiet Quitting Phenomenon among Gen Z Employees in South Korea
The Quiet Quitting Phenomenon among Gen Z Employees in South Korea

Summary/Abstract: Purpose – This study aims to explore how Generation Z employees in South Korea perceive and experience quiet quitting (QQ) and to examine the work-context factors associated with this phenomenon.Aim(s) – The aim of this study is to clarify the impact of the phenomenon of "Quiet Quitting" among the Generation Z employees in South Korea.Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative research design was adopted. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews with eight South Korean Generation Z employees and analysed using a seven-step grounded analysis approach.Findings – The findings suggest that, although generational differences remain a source of workplace tension, long working hours and the pursuit of work–life balance are among the most influential factors shaping participants’ attitudes toward QQ. The study further highlights the relevance of cultural factors, including hierarchical workplace structures and attitudes toward hustle culture, in understanding how QQ is experienced by South Korean Gen Z employees. Participants generally viewed QQ not as disengagement from work, but as a means of protecting themselves from excessive workloads, burnout, and perceived imbalances between effort and reward.Limitations of the study – The study is limited by its small sample size and gender imbalance. Future research should include larger and more diverse samples, conduct comparative studies across countries, and further develop conceptual and measurement frameworks for QQ in the South Korean context.Practical implications – The findings highlight the importance of addressing excessive workloads, supporting work–life balance, and reconsidering traditional workplace structures that may contribute to employee dissatisfaction and burnout among younger workers.Originality/value – Existing research on QQ has predominantly focused on Western contexts. This study contributes to the literature by providing qualitative insights into how South Korean Gen Z employees perceive and experience QQ within a distinct cultural and organisational setting.

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