03 Dec 2024 | 11:15 PM UTC
South Korea: KCTU launches indefinite nationwide labor strike Dec. 4 /update 1
KCTU union launches indefinite general strike across South Korea Dec. 4; other strikes continue. Transport, business disruptions likely.
Workers represented by the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) launched an indefinite nationwide labor strike on Dec. 4. Labor leaders assert that the organization will continue its work stoppage until President Yoon Suk Yeul resigns. Striking workers will also stage a protest at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul from 09:00 Dec. 4 as part of their action. The event will probably draw large crowds.
The new KCTU action coincides with a series of strikes already planned by other organizations. Several labor unions, particularly in the transport, education, and public services sectors, launched coordinated labor strikes across South Korea on Dec. 2. The Cargo Truckers Solidarity, an affiliate of the KCTU, is holding a three-day strike Dec. 2-4. Additionally, Korea Railroad (KORAIL) employees represented by the Korean Railway Workers' Union (KRWU) will stage an indefinite work stoppage starting Dec. 5, with workers employed by Seoul Metro walking off the job starting Dec. 6. Certain unionized public service employees, including those at the National Pension Service and Korea Gas in the South Korean capital, will also participate in a walkout, as will education workers affiliated with the KCTU. The purpose of these initial labor actions was to demand improved working conditions and condemn alleged workplace discrimination, among other things.
Increased demand for alternative modes of transportation is likely. Organizers may suspend or cancel the labor action at short notice if they perceive that authorities may give in to some of their demands.
Additional protests are possible nationwide. Potential gathering sites include the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport building and Seoul Metro facilities, as well as other government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Authorities will likely monitor any demonstrations that materialize and may disperse overly unruly crowds. Isolated minor skirmishes between strike participants and police cannot be ruled out.
Plan accordingly for likely disruptions to transport services, particularly rail services nationwide and metro services in Seoul, during the strike. Schedule alternative modes of transportation as necessary. Confirm business appointments in advance. Consider alternate arrangements for freights shipped by truck starting Dec. 2. As a precaution, avoid any demonstration that materializes. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
The KCTU is calling for President Yoon's ouster in reaction to his late Dec. 3 declaration of martial law; Yoon made the declaration in a televised briefing, accusing the opposition of controlling parliament, aligning with North Korea, and hindering government functions through alleged anti-state activities. The announcement sparked disruptive demonstrations outside the National Assembly in Seoul, prompting the deployment of military personnel, who withdrew after the legislature unanimously blocked the presidential decree; Yoon subsequently retracted his declaration.
