South Korea: Railway workers to hold indefinite strike November 20

Event

The Korean Railway Workers' Union announced on Monday, November 18, that an indefinite nationwide strike will be held as of Wednesday, November 20, to demand that the company hire 4000 additional staff and for a four percent basic salary increase. 

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) stated substitute workers have been hired to operate train services during the strike and estimates operation rates of 69 percent on the KTW bullet train, 60 percent on commuter trains, and 31 percent on cargo trains. The SRT bullet trains will operate normally, however standing room only tickets will be sold.

Significant rail transportation disruptions are expected nationwide for the duration of the strike.

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.