CJ's 'Remote Work' Experiment Tailored for the 'With Corona' Era

CJ ENM Pilot Introduction of Workation
Remote Work from a Resort
Jeju Branch Conducted for 3 Months

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Hye-seon] CJ's remote work experiment has begun in line with the 'With Corona' era. CJ ENM, where Lee Kyung-hoo, the eldest daughter of CJ Group Chairman Lee Jae-hyun, serves as Vice President, has pilot introduced 'workation' (a combination of work and vacation).

According to the distribution industry on the 2nd, CJ ENM is introducing a remote work location system to promote creative ideas and improve work efficiency. This work style allows telecommuters to work away from their usual workplace in Seoul, such as at resorts, enjoying work and vacation simultaneously. As the concept of an office as a fixed space fades, the focus is on 'anytime, anywhere' rather than a physical 'single space.' Before regular operation, the 'ENM Jeju Branch' will be piloted for three months from October to December.

CJ ENM has prepared an office in Jeju capable of accommodating 10 people. Each month, 10 people will be selected, totaling 30 participants. After a random draw, final candidates are chosen considering job type and rank. Accommodation and transportation costs up to 2 million KRW per person are supported. Employees will commute to the Jeju office for one month to perform their duties. Working hours and break times are applied the same as at headquarters.

With telecommuting established since the COVID-19 pandemic last year, large companies such as Samsung, Hyundai Motor, and Lotte have expanded autonomous work systems like hub offices, flexible seating, and selective working hours. CJ has gone further by adopting the concept of 'workation.' In the untact (contactless) era, it provides employees with opportunities to enjoy work and life like a vacation. This is also aimed at increasing job satisfaction among the MZ generation (Millennials + Generation Z), who value 'work-life balance.'

The need to boost employee morale also played a positive role. A CJ official said, "This decision was also made to help employees, who are struggling due to the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic, refresh their daily lives through a change of space and awaken their identity," adding, "If it is judged to have a positive effect on work efficiency, after regular operation, many employees will be given the opportunity." Meanwhile, CJ Group plans to continuously introduce work innovation measures to improve work efficiency by affiliate, starting with CJ ENM.