Park Myung-soo's 4.5-Day Work Week Remarks Spark Heated Debate

Comedian Park Myung-soo's recent comments on the '4.5-day work week' made on a radio show are continuing to stir controversy, with criticism intensifying online.

The discussion, which began after the broadcast on the 12th during KBS CoolFM's 'Park Myung-soo's Radio Show,' saw Park Myung-soo and co-host Jeon Min-ki discuss the proposed reduction in working days.

Park recalled his past experience of a 5.5-day work week, stating, "We lived through a 5.5-day work week back then. It was tough, but I believe the world we have today was built because we all worked hard."

He added a pragmatic perspective, suggesting, "With the population decreasing, if we also reduce working hours, it will be difficult for companies to survive. Of course, the working environment for employees is also important. Sufficient dialogue and agreement are needed."

However, his remarks quickly ignited a strong backlash. Some netizens took issue with Park mentioning his freelance work schedule, which involves working even during holidays like Chuseok. One commenter on his social media expressed dissatisfaction, asking, "How much more do you earn working a few days during Chuseok? Celebrities earn tens of millions, even hundreds of millions of won, while resting for months. On what grounds can someone who has never experienced regular employment discuss a 4.5-day week?"

Another netizen criticized, "Park Myung-soo's experience with strenuous labor is limited to the brief simulations he did on 'Infinite Challenge.' The corporate structure involves hiring fewer workers and assigning more tasks. Statements that seem to only defend the company's position are hard to empathize with."

Indeed, his social media comments section was flooded with remarks pointing out, "You're discussing working hours without having directly experienced regular employment."

On the other hand, there are those who agree with Park Myung-soo's perspective. Some netizens commented, "If employees work hard and achieve results, the company does well, and then I receive my salary and bonus, right?" adding, "Reducing working hours without results doesn't make sense."

Others echoed his concerns, stating, "Realistically, implementing a 4.5-day work week immediately presents many challenges."

Ultimately, Park Myung-soo's comments have transcended a personal opinion, broadening into a reflection of the conflicting interests between labor and corporations. Simultaneously, the critique that "as a public figure, one should have exercised more balance in their statements" continues to be raised.

The controversy remains ongoing. The reason Park Myung-soo's remarks are not just ending as a simple 'statement of conviction' but continue to heat up the internet daily is seen as a testament to how sensitive and contentious the issue of a 4.5-day work week is as a social agenda.

Park Myung-soo debuted as a special recruit comedian in 1993 and has had a long career in broadcasting. He is loved by the public for his witty remarks and honest charm on various entertainment shows, and his role on 'Infinite Challenge' particularly boosted his recognition. Recently, he has been actively communicating with the younger generation through his YouTube channel 'Hal Myung Soo,' continuing his popularity.