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How has COVID-19 affected the work environment of delivery workers?: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

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  • Jeehee Pyo
  • Eun Jee Park
  • Minsu Ock
  • Won Lee
  • Hye Jin Lee
  • Sungkyoung Choi

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has sparked a rapid worldwide increase in the utilization of delivery services. This study delves into the experiences of delivery workers as one of the activley developed industries during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea and sheds light on the effects of the pandemic on their working conditions. Through in-depth interviews with 10 Korean delivery workers, data analysis employed the hermeneutic phenomenology research method developed by Van Manen. The findings indicate a substantial rise in income levels and a positive societal perception of delivery labor post-COVID-19. The pandemic also attracted many new workers to the industry due to low entry barriers and work flexibility. However, challenges persisted as delivery workers grappled with an uncertain legal status and sometimes jeopardized their safety to boost earnings in shorter time frames. The pivotal role played by delivery workers in enhancing communal quality of life and connectivity during the pandemic cannot be overlooked. As we step into a post-COVID-19 era, comprehensive efforts are needed to enhance the working environment for delivery workers globally. Notably, clarifying the relationship between delivery workers and companies within the novel digital labor landscape is essential, alongside establishing institutional frameworks to safeguard workers’ basic rights, including health and safety provisions.

Suggested Citation

  • Jeehee Pyo & Eun Jee Park & Minsu Ock & Won Lee & Hye Jin Lee & Sungkyoung Choi, 2023. "How has COVID-19 affected the work environment of delivery workers?: An interpretative phenomenological analysis," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 18(9), pages 1-14, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0290403
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290403
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jim Stanford, 2017. "The resurgence of gig work: Historical and theoretical perspectives," The Economic and Labour Relations Review, , vol. 28(3), pages 382-401, September.
    2. Mariana Luísa da Costa Lage & Antonio Carlos Rodrigues, 2021. "Pandelivery : Reflections on black delivery app workers experiences during COVID‐19 in Brazil," Gender, Work and Organization, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 28(S2), pages 434-445, July.
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    1. Mandal, Minakshi Punam & Santini, Alberto & Archetti, Claudia, 2025. "Tactical workforce sizing and scheduling decisions for last-mile delivery," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 323(1), pages 153-169.

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