Recently, as dining-out prices have risen significantly, the phenomenon known as "lunchflation" (Lunch+Inflation), where lunch costs soar, has become more pronounced. According to Statistics Korea, dining-out prices in August increased by 3.1% compared to the same month last year. In particular, lunch prices in major business districts of the Seoul metropolitan area have far exceeded 10,000 won, increasing the lunch burden for office workers and students alike.
Amid this trend, one company is drawing attention for its unique employee welfare program. This is Midas Group, which includes Midas IT, the world’s leading software company in construction engineering, and Midasin, the top HR solutions provider in Korea. Located in Pangyo, Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, Midas Group offers a five-star hotel-style buffet for all three daily meals at just 2,000 won per meal. In a reality where a typical meal out costs more than 10,000 won, the opportunity to enjoy a premium buffet for 2,000 won stands out.
The company’s cafeteria features professional chefs with hotel backgrounds who prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner using seasonal ingredients. Recently, the cafeteria has even offered special menus selected through chef cooking competitions judged by employees. Notably, the 2,000 won meal fee paid by each employee is donated to a social contribution fund under their name, allowing employees to practice sharing in their daily lives.
The response from Midas Group employees has been positive. Park Uiroun from the Talent Development Team at Midas IT said, “For a low price, we can enjoy a hearty variety of Korean, Chinese, Japanese, and Western dishes, and there’s no stress about choosing where to eat every time.” Hong Youngbin from the Innovation Business Division at Midasin added, “There are plenty of healthy and delicious menu options, which makes it easy to manage my diet, and naturally practicing sharing during meals makes daily life feel more meaningful.”
Midas Group’s employee benefits go beyond meals. The company provides 3.65 million won in annual welfare points and operates a fitness center within its headquarters. There are also personal training services by professional trainers, medical benefits and customized manual therapy in partnership with Bundang Jesaeng Hospital, and long-term leave for employees with five years of service.
Such differentiated welfare policies stem from the company’s unique management philosophy. Lee Hyungwoo, founder and chairman of Midas Group, stated, “It is the duty of a manager to secure a stable living foundation and working conditions so that employees can fulfill their roles and responsibilities and grow. Just as parents want to do everything for their children out of love, it is not only a duty but also an act of love for a manager to take responsibility for the happiness of employees.”
As lunch costs for office workers increase due to lunchflation, Midas Group’s welfare program demonstrates that its approach goes beyond material benefits, representing a people-centered management philosophy that supports the growth and happiness of its employees.
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