South Korea: Railway workers schedule nationwide strike October 11-13

Event

The Korean Railway Workers' Union announced on Tuesday, October 8, that a 72-hour nationwide strike will be held from Friday, October 11, to Sunday, October 13. Over 10,000 union members are expected to take part in the strike, requesting an increase in the number of staff and better working conditions.

The stoppage is scheduled to begin at 09:00 (local time) on Friday. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) estimates operation rates of 72 percent on the KTX high speed line, 60 percent on the Saemaeul and Mugunghwa passenger trains, and 60 percent for cargo trains. In the Seoul metropolitan area, 88 percent of subways and 81 percent of high-speed trains are expected to run during the strike.

Significant rail transportation disruptions are expected nationwide for the duration of the strike.

Korea Railroad Corp. (KORAIL) announced they will offer refunds to customers for delayed trains. Ticket reservation will be limited until Monday morning. 

Advice

Individuals in South Korea are advised to monitor the situation, seek alternate modes of transportation, and anticipate disruptions and residual delays on railways in the coming days.