A Narrative Inquiry on the Psycho-Social Experiences of Females in Male-dominated Occupations

Work–faith integration in the neoliberal age: Women professionals’ alignment of evangelical identity with professional identity in South Korea

“…Furthermore, the gendered Korean workplace culture, favouring a male-centred, androcentric way and privileging heterosexual men who are free from the duties of housework and child caring (Bae et al, 2019), may be strengthened under the neoliberal regime, which valorises performances and efficiency, allowing a low degree of autonomy and freedom. A masculine work culture, which is advantageous for men who can overwork and participate in heavy-drinking sessions (Gee and Yang, 2016), may be changing, but this work culture permeates with increasing levels of performance, efficiency-oriented evaluations.…”

“…Along with women’s increasing levels of education and entry into the labour market, women have increasingly entered into traditionally male-dominated industries in Korea. However, the majority of women have reported unequal treatment, stereotypes, and prejudice towards women workers (Gee and Yang, 2016). Hence, women downplay their gender identity, including motherhood, and act like men to be recognised as a professional in the highly masculine workplace culture.…”

“…Another aspect that distinguishes South Korea as an interesting case is that overwork routines, efficiency, and performance-focused work culture under the restructuring of neoliberal global economy intersect with gendered organisational norms. Many large conglomerates and companies have been notorious a masculine work culture, which is advantageous for men who can overwork and participate in heavy-drinking sessions (Gee and Yang, 2016), may be changing, but this work culture may still permeate. This masculine work environment may be a visible pressing social concern given the increasing number of women professionals in South Korea.…”