[Diary Point Reporter Park Boyoung] The four-day workweek and employee benefits at Well of Inspiration, the company led by AKMU’s Lee Chanhyuk, were featured on episode 422 of MBC’s The Manager, which aired on October 31. Interest grew after his manager said the company helped cover a housing deposit and rent, raising questions about whether the benefit is available to everyone.
The housing support shown on the program was the experience of manager Yoo Hyunho. The company reportedly helped him find a home to share and provided support for the deposit and rent. However, the amount, duration and eligibility criteria—and whether the benefit applies companywide—were not disclosed. There is no basis to describe it as a fixed benefit guaranteed to all employees.
Wednesdays off, with exercise on Tuesdays
The company’s work arrangements included a four-day week and flexible remote work. According to reports, all employees have Wednesdays off, while Tuesdays are set aside for a sports day, followed by work from home. The program also showed employees taking swing dance lessons during work hours.
Employee titles also stood out. Lee Chanhyuk is called “the spring manager,” Lee Suhyun is “princess,” and employees are “inspirations,” a reference to the company’s name. The approach appears to bring the creator’s everyday life and experiences into the workplace, shaping both employee benefits and office culture.
“Applicants with a matching surname can’t join” was a joke on the show
A rule about surnames mentioned as part of the hiring process also drew attention. On the program, Lee Suhyun said employees are called by their surnames, so having two people with the same surname could get confusing. Lee Chanhyuk added that it would be difficult for someone with a matching surname to join, and the two joked that the applicant could simply change their name.
The exchange was presented as an unusual company rule and conversation on an entertainment show. It has not been confirmed as a formal hiring requirement in a public job posting or separate personnel policy, and the company has not disclosed what criteria it actually uses in hiring. The joke alone is not evidence that applicants with particular surnames are excluded.
The benefits drew interest because the show revealed several ways the company brings everyday life and creative work together, from a four-day week and dance lessons to one employee’s housing support. For now, the confirmed details are limited to the work arrangements shown on the program and one employee’s account of receiving support. The company has not separately disclosed who qualifies for housing assistance, its limits or how to apply, so it should not be presented as a guaranteed benefit for all employees.