Korea: Public service workers nationwide to begin strike Oct. 11

Event

Unionized public service workers under the umbrella of the Korean Public Service and Transport Workers' Union (KPTU) are set to begin an indefinite joint strike on Oct. 11. The industrial action will protest several issues, in particular the government's alleged ongoing efforts to privatize public services and the wage gap between regular and nonregular workers. Organizers expect around 25,000 workers from the National Health Insurance Service, Busan Subway Union, and the Seoul National University Hospital and Kyungpook National University Hospital branches of the Korean Health Care Workers' Trade Union to participate in the action. The Busan Subway Union and health workers at Seoul National University Hospital and Kyungpook National University Hospital will begin full strike action Oct. 11; the Health Insurance Workers' Union will hold regional rotation strikes from Oct. 11-17, before going on a full strike from Oct. 18. Organizers could withdraw from strike action at short notice if negotiations with officials succeed. Although South Korean law requires workers to maintain essential public services, health services, and public transport disruptions are likely.

Protests

Related protests are likely during the labor action in Seoul, Busan, and Daegu. Thousands of people could join each rally, with the highest attendance likely in Seoul. Potential protest sites include Kyungpook National University Hospital in Daegu, Busan Station, and Seoul National University Hospital, National Assembly. and Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul.

Authorities will likely maintain heightened security near government buildings and deploy additional personnel to monitor any protests that materialize. Demonstrations will probably remain peaceful, but minor clashes between police and protestors are possible. Localized ground transport disruptions are possible if activists march on or block nearby streets.

Train Disruptions

Non-peak hour trains on lines 1 to 3 will operate at reduced frequency due to a strike by the Busan subway union. Increased congestion on available trains and increased demand for alternative transport like buses, and taxis are likely in Busan during the strike. Officials are likely to provide alternative bus services in the case of prolonged strike action.

Medical Service Disruptions

Medical service disruptions are possible at affected hospitals during the strike, including a reduction in available services and cancelations of routine appointments. Increased demand could disrupt services at other hospitals in Seoul and Daegu. Disruptions could persist following strike days as medical facilities deal with a backlog of patients.

Advice

Reconfirm Busan subway schedule if travelling and allow extra time to reach destinations in Busan. Plan accordingly for medical services disruptions and confirm medical appointments. 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. Heed all official transport and security advisories.