Korean Metal Workers’ Union Continues to Defend Labor Rights Amid Ongoing Repression
Seoul, July 20, 2023 – The Korean Metal Workers’ Union (KMWU) remains steadfast in its fight against trade union repression in South Korea, intensifying its call to end the government’s heavy-handed tactics. This comes on the heels of a massive protest earlier this month, where over 100,000 KMWU members spanning various industries across the nation united to demand improved labor rights and justice.
During these rallies, KMWU leaders put forth a series of demands, with a particular focus on the overhaul of the Trade Union and Labor Relations Adjustment Act (TULRAA), starting with its pivotal Articles 2 and 3. The union also insisted on wage increases for all workers, commencing with an elevation of the minimum wage. Moreover, they vehemently opposed the proposed 69-hour work week, citing concerns over its adverse effects on worker well-being. Central to their demands was an immediate cessation of the government’s suppression of trade unions, along with the resignation of the Yoon Suk-Yeol administration.
KMWU President Yoon Jang Hyeok underscored the urgency of these demands, emphasizing that the proposed labor law reforms could leave workers exposed and devoid of adequate safeguards. He stressed that the strike transcended labor rights, representing a stand for democracy, peace, and the everyday livelihoods of ordinary citizens. The union pledged its commitment to forging alliances with other social forces to address the escalating repression.
The nationwide strike, which unfolded from July 3 to July 15, was part of the broader protest organized by the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) against the government’s actions targeting trade unions. Over 100,000 KMWU members, including employees from prominent companies like Hyundai Motor, Hyundai Mobis, Daewoo Shipbuilding, and Hyundai Heavy Industries, actively participated in the strike.
Tensions heightened in the country when government authorities conducted raids on trade union offices, resulting in the arrest and charging of numerous unionists. Tragically, this repressive atmosphere led to the self-immolation of unionist Yang Hoe-Dong.
Atle Høie, General Secretary of IndustriALL, expressed strong solidarity with the KMWU and the Korean working class, urging the Korean government to fully respect workers’ rights. Høie pointed to the condemnation of labor repression in Korea by the Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the four complaints lodged against the government at the ILO’s Committee on Freedom of Association, underscoring the urgent need to address these pressing issues.
Source: IndutriAll Global Union
