服务期是什么？违反服务期约定要支付违约金吗？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the legality and implications of service period agreements in labor contracts, particularly regarding training costs and penalties for breach of contract [2][4]. Group 1: Legal Framework - According to Article 22 of the Labor Contract Law, employers can establish a service period agreement with employees who receive specialized training, allowing for penalties if the employee breaches this agreement [2][4]. - The penalties for breaching the service period cannot exceed the training costs incurred by the employer, and should be proportionate to the unfulfilled portion of the service period [2][4]. Group 2: Training Costs - Training costs include documented expenses for professional training, travel costs during training, and other direct expenses related to the employee's training [3]. Group 3: Contractual Obligations - If the labor contract expires but the agreed service period has not yet concluded, the contract must be extended until the service period is fulfilled, unless otherwise agreed by both parties [5]. - The agreement on the service period does not affect the normal wage adjustment mechanisms, allowing for potential increases in employee compensation during the service period [6].