Higher anxiety level and associated work-related factors of delivery workers in South Korea: from the 6th Korean working conditions survey

This study investigates anxiety risk and work-related factors among platform workers. The recent growth in the platform industry is a worldwide trend, with delivery workers in Korea representing typical platform workers.

This cross-sectional study used the 6th Korean Working Conditions Survey to assess anxiety risk among 532 delivery workers compared to general employees. It identified associations between work-related factors and anxiety, including job demands and autonomy, legal protection, and emotional labor.

Delivery workers exhibited significantly higher anxiety (odds ratio [OR] = 1.67 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.23–2.28) and work-related anxiety (OR = 2.17 95% CI = 1.48–3.18) risk than the general workforce, and a significantly higher risk of having unfavorable work environment factors. Their anxiety risk was significantly associated with work-related factors, such as long shifts, quick return, time pressure, job stress, absence of union, work-family conflict, and emotional labor.

This study identified high levels of anxiety among Korean delivery workers and associated occupational factors. It highlights the importance for industry and government interventions to enhance mental health support, mitigate poor employment conditions, and ensure legal safeguards.