Summary of "직장인 절반, 여름휴가 못 간다. 고물가의 민낯"

Eugene Group survey: South Korean office workers cutting back on summer vacations

A Eugene Group survey of 1,128 affiliate employees finds that South Korean office workers are scaling back summer vacation plans as living costs rise. Planned vacation participation for 2025 fell to 72.2%, down from 82.3% the previous year.

Key findings

Planned summer vacations in 2025: 72.2% (down from 82.3% in 2024).
Top reason for giving up vacations: high cost of living (30.6%).
Other common reasons: personal or family circumstances, and work obligations.
Inflation cited as a reason has risen sharply over three years:
- 2023: 9.2%
- 2024: 29.1%
- 2025: 30.6%

How cost concerns are changing travel choices

31.0% prioritize cost-effectiveness when choosing a destination.
25.2% prioritize family preferences.
18.7% prioritize convenience.

Information sources for trip planning

50.5% consult YouTube or other social media reviews.
Past experience and recommendations from acquaintances are also important influences.

Company comment

Eugene Group noted that employees are planning vacations with “realistic and reasonable” standards and said the company will expand support measures to help workers get adequate rest.

“Realistic and reasonable”

Conclusion

The report concludes that high prices are changing office workers’ vacation culture and leisure behavior, prompting more budget-conscious and practical planning.