Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in Real Life
In Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, a respected and compassionate doctor transforms into a ruthless criminal. Although it sounds like fiction, we often encounter similar “double faces” in real life.
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A passenger may suddenly assault a driver. A manager who was humiliated outside the office may take out their anger on a subordinate. These are not isolated incidents — they are examples of workplace violence.
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What Is Workplace Violence?
Workplace violence refers to any act of physical assault, verbal abuse, intimidation, or threatening behavior that occurs in a work-related setting.
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Many people think violence only involves physical harm. However, workplace violence includes psychological abuse as well. If an employee dreads going to work because of constant harassment from a supervisor, that is violence — even if no physical injury occurs.
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Workplace violence affects not only an individual’s physical and mental health but also the overall work environment and organizational productivity. For this reason, many developed countries have implemented preventive policies and monitoring systems.
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In South Korea, official workplace violence statistics have been collected since 2006. Although incidents have slightly declined in recent years, more than 400 workers still suffer work-related injuries due to workplace violence annually.
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High-Risk Occupations and Perpetrators
Workers in transportation — such as taxi and bus drivers — face the highest risk of workplace violence. Security guards, building management staff, caregivers, manual laborers, and nurses are also vulnerable.
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More than half of workplace violence cases involve external customers. Co-workers and supervisors also account for a significant portion of incidents.
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Service workers, in particular, frequently interact with the public and are often exposed to emotional abuse. Treating service employees as outlets for frustration is a serious social problem that must be addressed.
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Prevention Is the Key
The most serious consequence of workplace violence is psychological trauma. Some victims struggle to return to work, and even if they do, maintaining normal job performance can be difficult.
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Prevention starts with building a culture of mutual respect. Clear anti-violence policies, zero tolerance for harassment, and strong reporting systems are essential.
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Even minor incidents should never be ignored. Small acts of abuse can escalate if left unaddressed. Organizations must respond swiftly and firmly to all reports and ensure there is no retaliation against whistleblowers.
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The workplace should be a place of dignity and safety — not a battlefield.
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