Turkish pop singer Hakan Peker, a prominent figure in the 1990s Turkish music scene, revealed he receives a monthly pension of 20,000 Turkish lira (approximately $650 USD as of February 10, 2026) during a recent television appearance. The singer detailed a complex relationship with the concept of retirement and the process of navigating Turkey’s state pension system.
Peker described experiencing psychological distress at the prospect of ceasing professional activity. He stated he actively resisted the idea of retirement, even to the point of deliberately delaying social security payments. “I didn’t want to enter the psychology of retirement,” Peker said, according to reports. “The state retired me.”
The singer’s comments sparked discussion on social media, with many users focusing on his description of retirement as signifying a lack of societal expectation. Peker framed the state’s decision to grant him a pension as an acknowledgement that his professional contributions were no longer required.
Peker’s revelation comes amid broader economic challenges in Turkey, including high inflation and a fluctuating currency. The value of the Turkish lira has significantly decreased in recent years, impacting the purchasing power of pensions and salaries. While 20,000 lira was a substantial sum in the past, its current value represents a modest income.
Recent reports indicate ongoing restructuring within the Turkish media landscape, with several editorial positions being cut at Reach cutbacks, according to Press Gazette. This context highlights the evolving nature of professional life and the increasing precarity faced by those in creative industries.
Designboom is currently advertising for a Senior Editor, a position that reflects the ongoing demand for experienced editorial staff despite industry-wide challenges. This suggests a continued need for skilled professionals in the media sector, even as traditional roles are redefined.
The singer did not elaborate on the specific circumstances that led to his retirement, nor did he comment on the adequacy of his pension in the current economic climate. He has not issued any further statements on the matter since his initial television appearance.
