04 Jul 2019 | 03:34 PM UTC
South Korea: Public sector workers protest amid ongoing strike July 4; further protests likely July 5
Public sector workers rally amid ongoing strike in Seoul July 4, further protests likely in coming days; heightened security presence and transportation disruptions likely
Event
The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) has called for non-regular public sector workers to strike for three days as of Wednesday, July 3, to demand better labor rights and working conditions. The organizers estimate that at least 100,000 workers are due to participate in the strike. On Thursday, July 4, protesters gathered in Seoul at Hyojian Centre at 14:00 (local time) and then marched to Gwanghwamun Square. Further related protests are likely to take place on Friday, July 5.
A heightened security presence and localized transport disruptions are to be expected around protest sites. Disruptions to businesses and government services are also expected during the strike.
Context
KCTU report that more than 50,000 non-regular public sector workers marched from Hyojian Centre to Gwanghwamun Square in the capital, Seoul, in the afternoon (local time) of Wednesday, July 3, to protest poor working conditions, wage discrimination, and to demand their conversion to regular worker status.
Advice
Individuals in South Korea, notably in Seoul, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate localized transportation and other disruptions during the strike period, and adhere to instructions issued by the local authorities.
