Daewoong Pharmaceutical is actively fostering a workplace culture that minimizes career interruptions after parental leave, emphasizing the establishment of a work-life balance system. The company has implemented various programs to ensure that parenting does not negatively impact career progression.
According to Daewoong Pharmaceutical's '2026 Sustainability Management Report' released on July 14, 2026, the return rate for employees who took parental leave in 2024 was 96%. The company has established a communication system involving the existing department, the HR team, and returning employees to facilitate smooth transitions, along with job rotation and career development programs to support ongoing career growth after returning.
One research employee transitioned to a new role in drug technology strategy through the company's Career Development Program (CDP) after the birth of their second child. Another employee utilized flexible work arrangements to lead a digital healthcare platform project and was promoted to team leader upon returning from parental leave.
The company is also expanding its welfare programs. Daewoong Pharmaceutical offers a one-on-one Pilates program for female employees returning within a year of childbirth and has implemented a policy that does not require specific reasons for taking leave, contributing to a more flexible work environment.
Additionally, the family support programs have been diversified. The introduction of long-term refresh leave allows employees to spend quality time with their families. The company also provides congratulatory payments for childbirth and school enrollment, as well as student loan support, as part of its lifecycle support initiatives.
As a result of these efforts, Daewoong Pharmaceutical was recognized as a 'Family-Friendly Leading Company' by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family this year and has maintained its family-friendly certification for 12 consecutive years. The company received an A+ rating in the social (S) category of the 2025 ESG evaluation by the Korea ESG Standards Institute, with its overall rating improving from B to A compared to the previous year.
A Daewoong Pharmaceutical representative stated, "We will continue to expand a work environment that allows employees to harmoniously balance work and family responsibilities."
Meanwhile, industry sources reported that the Fair Trade Commission concluded a complaint filed by the Korea Pharmaceutical Distribution Association against Daewoong Pharmaceutical on June 26. The complaint, which questioned Daewoong Pharmaceutical's 'hub wholesale' policy, has lost momentum, while the company's distribution innovation efforts are gaining traction.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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