South Korea: Unionized Hyundai autoworkers likely to continue protest campaign through late November

Further protests by Unionized Hyundai auto workers are likely through late November amid an ongoing strike action. Since Oct. 8, thousands of Hyundai Transys labor union members have been on strike, demanding higher wages and bonuses. In recent weeks, striking workers have organized protests at the Hyundai Transys plant in Seosan, South Chungcheong Province; Hyundai Motor Group's headquarters in Yangjae, Seoul; and Hyundai Motor Factory in Ulsan. Gatherings are also possible outside other factories in Asan, Gwangju, Hwaseong, and Jeonju. The strike has led to production delays at Hyundai's Ulsan Plant 1 and Kia's Gwangju plant due to a shortage of parts supplied by Hyundai Transys.

Police will likely tighten security around the company's facilities and at any protests that materialize as a precaution. Further production delays are possible if the strike is protracted. Striking workers may block access roads, causing localized transport disruptions. Clashes between police and protesters are possible, particularly if demonstrators become overly disruptive.