Next Sohee

The events unfold in contemporary times, reflecting current labor practices in South Korea’s service industry. The narrative covers a school semester, externship processes, and subsequent investigations, all within a modern urban backdrop.

The story centers on a call center environment tied to S-Plus Korea Telecom, with key action taking place inside the Human and Net offices. The corporate setting serves as a pressure cooker for trainee externs and employees alike, highlighting who profits and who bears the costs. Sohee's high school externship placement also factors into the critique of how young people are placed into exploitative work settings.

💼 Labor Exploitation

The externship program reveals underpayment, pressure to meet aggressive sales targets, and a culture that prizes revenue over worker welfare. Sohee and her peers endure verbal abuse and coercive practices that blur ethical boundaries. The film critiques corporate systems that monetize workers’ time and compliance.

🧠 Mental Health & Pressure

Sohee faces relentless stress and manipulation within a high-pressure environment, illustrating the toll on mental health. The escalating strain culminates in a tragic outcome, underscoring the emotional cost of abusive workplace cultures. The narrative also shows how family and friends are affected by these pressures.

🗣️ Accountability & Whistleblowing

Yoojin’s investigation exposes systemic labor-law violations and the school’s role in placing students in exploitative externships. The film questions the effectiveness of whistleblowing amid managerial pushback and organizational inertia. It advocates for legal and institutional accountability to protect workers and students.