Are Fixed-Term Part-Time Workers Protected Enough?

In recent years, there has been a sharp increase in fixed-term part-time positions, especially among young people. Many students and job seekers seek temporary work to earn income while studying or preparing for employment. In response, companies are increasingly hiring workers on fixed-term contracts, leading to a shift in the structure of the part-time job market. Although the work is short-term, the variety of job formats continues to expand.

As companies seek greater flexibility and cost-efficiency, they are turning to fixed-term contracts instead of hiring full-time employees. Consequently, many part-time workers are now classified as fixed-term employees under labor law, meaning they may be entitled to the same legal protections as full-time staff. However, in practice, these workers often face gaps in protection and inconsistent application of labor standards.

Fixed-term part-time workers are often categorized both as short-time workers and non-regular employees. This dual classification means they typically lack long-term job security and have limited access to benefits such as social insurance. Uncertainty around contract renewal and vulnerability to labor rights violations are common concerns, highlighting the need for stronger institutional safeguards.

Background and Types of Growing Fixed-term Part-time Jobs

Expansion of fixed-term employment as a tool for corporate labor flexibility

To reduce labor costs and respond flexibly to economic fluctuations, many companies are increasingly hiring fixed-term or part-time employees instead of full-time workers. Especially in seasonal work or short-term projects, fixed-term positions are seen as more efficient. As a result, companies now widely use this employment type as a strategic staffing method, which in turn contributes to the rise in short-term employment among the younger workforce.

Growth of online platform-based short-term job contracts

In sectors like delivery, logistics, and event staffing, hiring through online job platforms has become prevalent. These platform-based jobs offer easy access and flexible work conditions, attracting many job seekers. However, they often lack job security and adequate labor protections. The rise of such short-term fixed-term jobs reflects the growing reliance on platform-based recruitment and the shift toward increasingly non-traditional employment models.

Working Conditions in a Legal Blind Spot

Lack of Employment Contracts and Unpaid Weekly Allowance

Many part-time workers begin their jobs without signing a written employment contract, which limits their legal protection in case of disputes. Additionally, many do not receive the weekly allowance mandated by law, especially when they work over 15 hours per week. This reflects a serious lapse in upholding even the most basic rights guaranteed by labor law, highlighting the urgent need for reform.

Job Insecurity and Lack of Social Insurance

Due to the short and irregular nature of contract-based part-time jobs, many workers are excluded from social insurance systems such as employment insurance, national pension, and health insurance. As a result, they face significant risks without adequate protection in cases of illness, injury, or unemployment. Frequent contract terminations further aggravate job insecurity. Greater awareness and responsibility from both employers and the government are essential to address this issue.

Legal Gaps and the Need to Strengthen Labor Rights Protection

Limitations of the Act on the Protection of Fixed-Term and Part-Time Workers

While the current law outlines protections for fixed-term and part-time workers, its application in real workplaces often falls short. Many short-term part-time jobs, such as casual "alba" positions, are initiated without proper contracts, leaving workers in a legal blind spot. In some cases, the employer may not fully understand the legal requirements, resulting in incomplete or invalid employment practices.

The Need for Policy and Institutional Measures to Protect Short-Term Workers

As the number of short-term workers increases, urgent measures are needed to strengthen their legal protection. Policies such as mandatory contract documentation, relaxed criteria for social insurance coverage, and streamlined dispute resolution procedures should be implemented. It is also essential for the government to provide clear legal guidelines and enforce stricter penalties for non-compliance to ensure better protection of labor rights.

Part-time contract workers also deserve proper protection

Recently, many companies have increased their reliance on part-time contract workers to reduce labor costs and improve operational efficiency. However, such flexible employment can potentially infringe on workers' rights. Thus, labor efficiency should be balanced with the assurance of fundamental labor protections. Stability and fair working conditions are essential for building a sustainable society.

Part-time and short-term workers are legitimate labor participants. Nevertheless, many still face unfair practices such as the absence of employment contracts or underpayment. This reflects the gap between current labor laws and actual working conditions. Raising public awareness about the rights of part-time workers is critical. One effective way is through platforms like 미수다알바, which offer reliable job listings and highlight labor protections. This helps part-time workers secure safe and fair employment.