Generative AI Adoption Leads to Reduced Work Hours Among South Korean Employees
Generative AI is transforming the workplace, enabling employees to work more efficiently and cut down their hours. Recent findings reveal that South Korean workers are embracing these innovative tools, resulting in significantly fewer hours on the job.
Significant Reduction in Work Hours
According to a recent survey conducted by the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), South Korean employees have decreased their work hours by an impressive 17.8 percent thanks to generative AI platforms. The survey, which included 3,000 wage workers aged 20 and older, indicated that these tools have facilitated an average reduction of 8.4 hours per week.
Widespread Use of AI Tools
More than half of the respondents—56 percent—reported integrating AI tools into their daily tasks. The information and telecommunications sector demonstrated the highest adoption rate, with 77.6 percent of employees utilizing AI technologies. Furthermore, the survey highlighted that 66.5 percent of workers in larger enterprises (300 or more employees) made use of AI tools, compared to 52.7 percent in small and medium-sized companies.
Main Applications of AI in the Workplace
The primary applications for these AI tools center around drafting and summarizing documents, which significantly streamline workflow. However, workers who have not yet adopted AI technologies cited low work efficiency as a significant drawback. Employees at larger companies specifically pointed to corporate security policies as a key barrier to implementing these tools.
Implications for Future Productivity
According to Lee Chang-keun, a professor at KDI School of Public Policy and Management, enhancing productivity through generative AI platforms requires more than just investment in technology. Companies must also focus on developing their employees’ skills and capabilities to fully harness the potential of these tools.
In conclusion, the integration of generative AI into workplaces is proving beneficial in reducing work hours and enhancing efficiency. As more employees adopt these technologies, companies must prioritize employee development and adaptability to maximize productivity gains.
