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“Today, the average Korean works a thousand hours more a year than the average German. A thousand. ... That is the end of the Great Divergence.” quote by Niall Ferguson
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“Today, the average Korean works a thousand hours more a year than the average German. A thousand. ... That is the end of the Great Divergence.”

Niall Ferguson

About This Quote

Source Article: The Great Divergence, Foreign Affairs, 2020

Korea’s extreme work hours illustrate a widening productivity gap between nations.

In simple terms: Korea works far longer than Germany, widening economic disparity.

Key Takeaway

Balance work with well‑being.

Themes

productivity culture economics worklife

Mood

concerned analytical

Type

economic sociopolitical

When to use this quote

  • corporate policy
  • national labor standards
  • personal health
  • family time

Key Concepts

sociology comparative economics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can productivity increase without longer hours?
  • What cultural shifts could reduce overwork?
A Different Perspective

High hours can harm health and innovation; efficiency matters more than length.

2.5 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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