South Korea: Seoul subway workers to strike October 16-18 /update 1

Event

Union representing Seoul Metro workers announced a 72-hour strike to take place from Wednesday, October 16, to Friday, October 18. The social movement will be held to demand an increase in the number of staff as well as better working conditions. Seoul's Subway Lines 1 to 8, operated by Seoul Metro, will be impacted by the strike.

The union estimates operation rates of 66 percent on lines 1 to 4 and 78 percent on lines 5 to 8. Significant rail transportation disruptions are expected in Seoul for the duration of the strike.

Further strikes organized by railway unions are possible in Seoul in the coming weeks and months. 

Context

Workers of the state-owned Korea Railroad Corp. (KORAIL) held a similar 72-hour nationwide strike between October 11-October 13.

Advice

Individuals in Seoul are advised to monitor the situation, seek alternate modes of transportation, and anticipate disruptions and residual delays on railways in the coming days.