South Korean Ministry Prioritizes Work-Life Balance with ‘Family Day’ Initiative
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A new initiative by teh ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural affairs aims to foster a more family-friendly work habitat, culminating in a recent “Family Day” event where children of employees experienced a day as honorary civil servants. The programme underscores a growing emphasis on employee well-being and organizational culture within the South Korean government.
A Day in the Life
On December 31st, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Song Mi-ryeong welcomed approximately 60 children to the Sejong Government Complex for a unique experience. The event was designed to allow children to gain firsthand insight into their parents’ professional lives and to learn about the ministry’s role in agricultural and food administration.
Children participating in the “Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Family Day” received a special designation: a daily certificate recognizing them as honorary civil servants, along with personalized business cards bearing their names. The day included a viewing of a video detailing the ministry’s functions,followed by visits to the departments where their parents work.There, the children had the opportunity to greet colleagues and exchange business cards, fostering a sense of connection and pride. Those who completed assigned tasks were awarded a ‘Children’s honorary Employee Experience Certificate’.
Strengthening Family Bonds
the event concluded with a shared lunch in the government building’s cafeteria, providing a valuable opportunity for families to connect outside of the usual work-life constraints.”We wanted to introduce parents’ work from the outlook of children and create time for employees to laugh with their families,” Minister Song stated. She further emphasized the ministry’s commitment to “continue to create an organizational culture that harmonizes work and family.”
Consistent Recognition of Family-Friendly Policies
The Ministry of Agriculture,Food and rural Affairs’ dedication to supporting employees extends beyond one-day events. The ministry has consistently demonstrated a commitment to family-friendly policies, earning re-certification in this area since its initial recognition in 2017.This re-certification, extended in 2020, 2022, and slated for renewal in 2025, acknowledges the ministry’s robust systems for supporting childbirth, childcare, and flexible work hours.
This initiative signals a broader trend within the South Korean government to prioritize employee well-being and create a more supportive work environment,recognizing that a healthy work-life balance benefits both individuals and the nation as a whole.
Why: The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs launched the “Family Day” initiative to foster a more family-friendly work environment and improve employee well-being.
Who: Approximately 60 children of employees participated, along with Minister Song Mi-ryeong and ministry staff. The initiative involved the entire ministry and signals a broader trend within the South Korean government.
What: The “Family Day” event allowed children to experience a day as honorary civil servants, including receiving certificates and business cards, visiting their parents’ departments, and completing tasks.The ministry also consistently earns re-certification for its family-friendly policies.
How did it end?: The event concluded with a shared lunch, and the ministry reaffirmed its commitment to a work-life balance. The initiative is ongoing, with re-certification for family-friendly policies scheduled for renewal in 2025.
