Overwork has become a pressing issue in South Korea. About three months ago, a delivery company’s plan to introduce seven-day-a-week service sparked public outrage, raising serious concerns about the growing risk of overwork-related deaths among delivery drivers.
Dr. Lee Guk Jong, director of the National Defense Medical Center, delivered a powerful message to aspiring military medical officers. “I’ve dedicated my life to trauma surgery, but nothing has changed. “My colleague, Dr. Yoon Han Deok, died from overwork. Don’t let that be your fate,” he urged. His heartfelt warning quickly went viral on social media, resonating deeply with the public.
Likewise, Dr. Jung Hee Won of Asan Medical Center, widely known for promoting the “slow aging” movement, addressed the dangers of overwork in a Wednesday YouTube video titled “What Overwork Has Left Me.”
According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), South Koreans worked an average of 1,872 hours in 2023, about 130 hours more than the OECD average of 1,742 hours. While exact data is complex to confirm, estimates suggest that overwork-related deaths are steadily rising.
Overwork can take a serious toll on the body, and it is crucial to practice self-care, especially after pushing yourself to the limit. Reducing work hours would be the ideal solution, but that isn’t an option for many. When you are exhausted after a long day, avoid the instinct to take a hot shower. Though warm water can help relax tense muscles, it also dilates your blood vessels, which can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Usually, your body would adjust to this change, but when you are severely overworked, your autonomic nervous system may not respond properly. A hot shower while your body is already fatigued could trigger a sudden drop in blood pressure or restrict blood flow to the brain.
This can result in dizziness or fainting, and in severe cases, even heart attacks or sudden death. Moreover, the risk of falling in the shower, especially for those living alone, could lead to injuries or life-threatening delays in receiving help.
When you are overworked, it’s important to listen to your body. If possible, skip the shower altogether. If you need to wash, choose a quick rinse with lukewarm water instead of a hot soak. Before showering, drink a small amount of water, and leave the bathroom door open for ventilation. If you feel dizzy, get out of the shower immediately.
Remember, a body worn down by overwork needs real rest, not temporary relief. Though a hot shower might feel soothing, it could put your health at greater risk.
On days when you are completely drained, pause before stepping into the shower and ask yourself whether your body is ready for it. It may seem like a minor choice, but it can have serious consequences. Always pay attention to what your body is telling you.
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