South Korea: Rail service disruptions continue November 24 /update 2

Event

Rail service in South Korea remains disrupted for a fifth consecutive day on Sunday, November 24, as Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL) workers continue to strike. According to media reports, service is operating at 70-75 percent of normal capacity, with freight trains experiencing the most significant disruptions. Special measures are in place to provide transportation services to university students taking examinations if their trains are delayed. Negotiations between the union and KORAIL management resumed on Saturday, November 23, but it is unclear when service will return to normal.

Significant rail transportation disruptions are expected nationwide for the duration of the strike. Up-to-date information on the status of KORAIL service can be found on their website here.

Context

Around 11,500 members of the Korean Railway Workers' Union launched an indefinite strike on Wednesday, November 20. The workers are demanding that KORAIL hire 4000 additional staff and a four percent basic salary increase.

Advice

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