Korean unions protest parent companies' refusal to negotiate with subcontractors

The Korean Metal Workers' Union (KMWU) is escalating its protest against major corporations, accusing them of refusing to engage in collective bargaining with subcontracted workers. The union asserts that despite the "Yellow Envelope Law" (also known as the Labor Union Act amendment) taking effect over four months ago, none of the 24 targeted parent companies have agreed to negotiations.

On July 8, KMWU members held a press conference in front of the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts in Seoul. They displayed chairs bearing the names of the companies allegedly refusing to negotiate, symbolizing their demand for direct talks. The union argues that these parent companies exercise substantial labor control over approximately 21,000 KMWU members who work for subcontractors, yet they evade direct responsibility for labor conditions and negotiations.

KMWU leaders are calling on the government to intervene and ensure that these parent companies fulfill their obligations. "The parent company employers must immediately commence negotiations, and the government must fulfill its role in facilitating these negotiations," stated a union representative. The union plans to hold its first general strike on July 15 to pressure the companies and the government into addressing their demands.

The "Yellow Envelope Law" aims to strengthen the rights of subcontracted workers by making parent companies more accountable for labor practices within their supply chains. The KMWU's current action highlights ongoing tensions between large corporations and their contracted workforce, particularly concerning the recognition of union rights and the establishment of fair bargaining processes.

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The parent company employers must immediately commence negotiations, and the government must fulfill its role in facilitating these negotiations.