South Korea: Unionized healthcare workers plan to strike nationwide Nov. 11

Event

The Korean Healthcare Workers' Union (KHWU) plans to strike at multiple public medical facilities nationwide Nov. 11 to demand the government improve working conditions amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants will also hold a protest march at 13:30 from the Cheongwadae/Blue House to Seoul City Hall. Organizers say emergency, and intensive care services will not be affected.

Some medical service disruptions are likely at public healthcare centers nationwide during the strike as moderate participation is likely. Although KHWU has over 7,600 members, healthcare workers at some prominent hospitals in Seoul will not join the action after successful negotiations with their respective employers.

Striking workers may hold additional demonstrations outside hospitals, union offices, or government buildings, mainly in and around Seoul. Heightened security is likely, including deployment of additional personnel, at gathering sites. Localized transport and business disruptions will likely occur near any protest venue. While any rallies will likely be peaceful, skirmishes between demonstrators and security personnel remain possible. Officials may disperse any action that they deem to violate COVID-19-related protocols.

Advice

Confirm medical appointments Nov. 11 as a precaution. Plan for medical service delays. If possible, contact healthcare facilities in advance for information about wait times, which could vary among hospitals and clinics. Avoid protests as a precaution. Plan for possible localized transport disruptions near rally sites.