In the bustling, high-pressure society of South Korea, where work consumes so much of daily life, a photographer is on a mission to capture moments of respite. Seoul-based photographer Kim Seunggu has spent nearly 15 years documenting the essence of South Korea’s “leisure culture” — vacations, poolside relaxation, and community gatherings. Through his ongoing series Better Days, Kim delves deep into the country’s relationship with work, rest, and social life. In a nation that struggles with some of the longest working hours globally, his work highlights how South Koreans carve out moments of joy despite the overwhelming pressures of modern life.

The Strain of South Korea’s Work Culture

South Korea is known for its grueling work ethic. With the country ranked fourth in the world for the longest working hours, the concept of “gwarosa” (death by overwork) is all too real, claiming numerous lives every year. In 2023, the South Korean government abandoned a plan to extend the maximum working week from 52 to 69 hours, following fierce backlash from younger generations. The proposal was driven by the country’s labor shortage, caused by a declining birth rate and an aging population. Amid all this, Kim’s photos of South Koreans relaxing — whether at a park, swimming pool, or on vacation — provide a striking contrast to the intense work life that dominates much of the country.

A Lifelong Fascination with Leisure

Kim, 45, first began capturing South Korea’s leisure culture in 2010 during his graduate studies. His ongoing project is a reflection of his childhood observations of how people interact during their free time. “I felt a newfound fascination with these scenes,” Kim shared in a phone interview with CNN. The photographs he’s taken have been showcased in notable exhibitions, including at the Gyeonggi Museum of Modern Art and the Seoul Museum of Art, and his work has garnered critical acclaim, including the Grand Prix at the Tokyo International Photography Competition.

In his photos, Kim often contrasts tranquil moments of leisure with the looming cityscapes in the background. These images serve as a powerful reminder of the tension between the demands of daily life and the desire for relaxation. His upcoming book Better Days features over 50 images from this series, focusing on themes of recreation, community, and work-life balance.

From City Parks to Traditional Pools: The Locations Behind the Photos

One of the most striking elements of Kim’s work is the locations he chooses to feature. Rather than focusing on the wealthy elite, his subjects often belong to the middle class, representing a broader segment of South Korean society. In his photo of the Jangheung Hanok Swimming Pool, Kim captures families enjoying the mineral-rich waters with traditional Korean architecture in the background, creating a juxtaposition of old and new. In another image, the pink blossoms of Royal Azaleas Hill dominate the scene, showcasing the deep cultural importance of seasonal festivals in Korea.

Kim’s approach is also informed by his historical working understanding of the country. He draws parallels between the culture of the common people in South Korea and the genre paintings of the Joseon dynasty, which depicted the everyday lives of ordinary people. Just as European genre painters often focused on the lives of peasants, Kim believes the leisure activities of the majority offer a more genuine representation of contemporary Korean society.

A Flexible Community: The Roots of South Korea’s Leisure Culture

To fully understand South Korea’s unique leisure culture, Kim looked back at the country’s history — particularly the decades of Japanese colonial rule and the Korean War. The push for political reform in the 1980s and 90s, especially following the 1987 democratic uprising, brought with it an acceptance of Western culture. However, a strong sense of community rooted in Confucian values remained. Today, South Korea is a blend of individualism and communal spirit, where gatherings — even among strangers — are seen as a norm.

Kim views South Korean society as a “flexible community,” one that adapts and overcomes challenges. His photographs showcase the resilience of South Korean people, who continue to find joy and connection despite the constant pressures of working and modernization. Kim doesn’t directly address political issues in his working, but he sees his photos as part of a broader commentary on the growing pains of a society striving for a better future.

The Art of Slow Photography

Kim’s approach to photography is not rushed — in fact, he practices “slow photography,” often spending hours observing before capturing a single image. This working process mirrors the very leisure he’s documenting: an intentional, thoughtful pause in the fast-paced world around him.

Despite capturing scenes of relaxation and enjoyment, Kim’s work is a reflection of his own work ethic and dedication. “I plan to continue until I can working no longer do so,” he said, showing his commitment to documenting Korea’s evolving leisure culture.

Kim’s Better Days, published by Kehrer Verlag, offers a visual story of South Korea’s delicate balance between work and play. It is available now, providing a snapshot of a society that finds moments of joy amidst the grind.

Conclusion

Kim Seunggu’s photographs serve as a powerful reminder that even in a country known for its long work hours, the pursuit of relaxation and community is alive and well. Through his lens, he highlights working South Korea’s complex yet vibrant leisure culture, offering a glimpse into how people continue to seek balance and connection despite the pressures of modern life.