1,500 percent bonus isn't enough😣

SK hynix employees are divided over a 1,500% performance bonus based on their monthly salary, which translates to 75% of their annual salary. Some workers, including union members, argue the bonus should be higher, considering the company’s record-breaking 23.5 trillion won operating profit in 2024, thanks to Nvidia's AI chip boom.📈 Including earlier bonuses, the total rate is 1,920%. The union points out the bonus rate matches 2018’s level, despite the higher profit in 2024. CEO Kwak Noh-jung acknowledged the dissatisfaction but explained the bonus reflects various factors like increased staff and investment in new facilities.☹️ The semiconductor industry demands massive spending, and SK hynix plans significant investments in new factories this year.🏭

Yoon becomes first incumbent president to be indicted👤

Koreans hit the road for holiday travel🚗

The wave of resignation concerns among public officials continues into 2025. Reports show dissatisfaction is highest among those in their 30s and mid-level positions, such as Grade 6 and 7 public servants. 🏢

According to a recent survey by the Ministry of Personnel Management, 3 out of 4 public officials (75.2%) admitted to considering leaving their jobs. 💭 The top reason cited was low pay (62.4%), followed by heavy workloads (32.2%)and stress from civil complaints (28.1%). 😰

👩‍💼 What Are Public Officials Saying?
Some public officials voiced concerns like, “No matter how hard you work, social status keeps declining, and even promotions don’t lead to fair treatment.” One respondent candidly shared, “If my child wanted to become a public servant, I’d discourage them.” Interestingly, 34.1% of respondents said they would discourage their children from pursuing public service, compared to only 23.2% who would support it. Shocking, right? 😔

🛠 What Is the Government Doing?
The government is trying to boost morale by introducing several initiatives. Starting next year, the starting salary for Grade 9 public servants will increase to 2.84 million KRW and is expected to reach 3 million KRW by 2027. Additionally, 5,800 housing units will be prioritized for housing support for non-homeowning public officials by 2030🏘 However, public servants argue that more fundamental improvements to their working conditions are necessary🗣

💡 Thoughts
How can the issue of public servant turnover be resolved? Is improving their benefits the key? Share your thoughts in the comments! ✍️

One of the things that comes to mind when thinking about Seollal (Korean Lunar New Year) is the 복주머니 (bokjumeoni)! This small pouch, decorated with vibrant colors and beautiful patterns, isn’t just a bag for holding money or gifts—it’s a symbolic item that carries Korea’s rich traditions. 💖

The Meaning of Bokjumeoni

The word bokjumeoni literally means "a pouch of blessings" or "a bag of luck." On Seollal, elders give children bokjumeoni filled with money or small gifts, wishing them a year full of good fortune. 💝 Back in the day, people didn’t just put money in these pouches. They often included grains, old coins, or even talismans to pray for blessings. 🧧

History and Tradition of Bokjumeoni

The history of bokjumeoni goes way back! During the Joseon Dynasty, children would wear their new holiday clothes along with a bokjumeoni tied to their waist on Lunar New Year. Inside, they’d place talismans or grains to ward off bad luck and invite good fortune. 🍀 Bokjumeoni wasn’t just functional—it represented the giver’s heartfelt wishes and the receiver’s joy. 💞

Modern Bokjumeoni

These days, you can find bokjumeoni in all kinds of designs, from traditional styles to modern and even quirky ones. Many families still use traditional bokjumeoni to give sebaetdon (New Year’s money) to children during Seollal. The bright, colorful patterns of bokjumeoni aren’t just pretty—they also symbolize things like happiness, health, and longevity. 🥰

The Cultural Symbolism of Bokjumeoni

Bokjumeoni isn’t just a gift; it’s a way of sharing blessings. When you give someone a bokjumeoni, you’re wishing for their new year to be filled with joy and good luck. This small but meaningful item carries warm emotions between the giver and receiver, making it one of the most iconic symbols of Seollal.

If you get the chance, why not gift someone a bokjumeoni this Lunar New Year and share your blessings with them? It’s a simple yet meaningful way to spread warmth and joy. 😍