President Lee Condemns IKEA Korea's Alleged 'Parental Leave Retaliation'

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has strongly condemned alleged anti-labor practices by IKEA Korea, vowing strict action if the accusations are proven.

President Lee shared a report detailing allegations that IKEA Korea demoted an employee returning from parental leave and pressured them to resign. He stated on X, formerly Twitter, that while South Korean companies must not engage in such behavior abroad, foreign companies operating in Korea should also adhere to fair labor practices.

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Our government cannot tolerate such anti-labor behavior.

"There have been instances where a once exemplary global company showed anti-labor and opaque management only in our country, drawing criticism," Lee remarked. He contrasted this with South Korea's current status as a leading model society and government, emphasizing that such "outdated business practices" would not be tolerated.

President Lee pledged a thorough investigation into the allegations. "If proven true, we will take stern action in line with international standards," he added, signaling a firm stance against any company found to be violating labor rights within South Korea.

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We will thoroughly investigate and take stern action in line with international standards if the allegations are proven true.