Return-to-Work challenges faced by non-regular workers: Insights from a four-year panel study in South Korea

Abstract

Background

Non-regular workers in South Korea account for approximately 37% of the workforce and face elevated risks of occupational injury, yet empirical research on their return-to-work (RTW) outcomes remains limited.

Objective

This study aims to (1) compare RTW outcomes between regular and non-regular workers over a four-year observation period, and (2) identify group-specific predictors of RTW using a multidimensional framework encompassing individual, psychological, health-related, social, and workplace factors.

Methods

Data from 2643 occupationally injured workers were drawn from the Panel Study of Workers’ Compensation Insurance, a nationally representative dataset spanning four annual waves (2018 to 2021). Random-effects panel multinomial logistic regression models were estimated separately for each employment type, supplemented by a pooled interaction model to test between-group differences.

Results

Non-regular workers were more likely to remain unemployed or be reemployed at a different workplace, whereas regular workers were more likely to return to their original jobs. Self-efficacy and social interaction were associated with RTW in both groups, though their effects operated through different pathways. Labor union presence was significantly associated with RTW only among regular workers.

Conclusions

Non-regular workers experience structurally distinct RTW patterns following occupational injury. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions that strengthen psychological and social resources for non-regular workers, alongside institutional reforms to support their sustainable reintegration.