South Korea: Cargo truckers agree to end nationwide strike Dec. 9 /update 2

Event

Unionized truck drivers represented by Cargo Truckers' Solidarity agreed to end a nationwide strike Dec. 9 following return-to-work orders by the government. The purpose of the work stoppage, which began on Nov. 24, was to demand several concessions, including minimum pay guarantees. The strike caused severe shipping disruptions, impacting operations in the oil refinery sector, as well as seriously disrupting the transport of various goods, including fuel and automobiles, from major ports and industrial complexes such as Pohang, Ulsan, and Yeosu.

Lingering delivery delays may continue beyond the end of the strike as service providers work to resolve backlogs. Truck drivers could continue to hold further protests over the coming weeks despite ending the strike, given that the government has rejected the union's demands. Authorities will almost certainly deploy increased security near any future rallies that may materialize. Localized business and transport disruptions are possible at related gatherings. Possible demonstration sites include large factories and port offices. Significant violence is unlikely, though clashes between police and protesting truck drivers cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Confirm road status, as well as shipping and delivery schedules for the duration of the strike. Seek alternative shipping modes for time-sensitive freights. Avoid all demonstrations as a standard security precaution; do not attempt to cross protester roadblocks. Heed all official security and transport advisories.