“Bosses in name, but the weakest of the weak in reality”… Will they finally stand tall?

Dong-A Ilbo reports on the significant anticipation among South Korea's small business owners following President Lee Jae-myung's remarks advocating for collective bargaining rights. For too long, these entrepreneurs, despite being called '사장님' (bosses), have found themselves at the mercy of powerful delivery platforms and franchisors, forced to comply with unilateral decisions. President Lee's statement, made during a meeting with the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, signals a potential shift towards empowering these business owners with the right to organize and negotiate collectively. This is particularly welcome news for the restaurant industry, which relies heavily on delivery platforms. As Kim Seung-il, head of policy development at the Korea National Restaurant Association, stated, the prospect of having a voice and negotiating power is a 'welcome development.' The current legal framework, specifically the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act, often treats collective action by small businesses as collusion, leaving them vulnerable. The proposed changes, however, could fundamentally alter this dynamic, allowing small business owners to negotiate terms regarding fees, operating hours, and other critical issues, rather than simply accepting dictated terms. This move is seen as a crucial step in leveling the playing field and ensuring fairer practices within the platform economy.

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It's a welcome development for us in that we may be given negotiation rights.