President Lee criticizes IKEA over 'parental leave controversy', says foreign companies must not engage in anti-labor practices domestically

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has strongly condemned alleged anti-labor practices by the global furniture company IKEA within South Korea. Responding to reports that IKEA allegedly demoted an employee returning from parental leave and pressured them to resign, President Lee stated, "Just as our companies should not exhibit anti-labor, unreasonable behavior overseas, foreign companies should not do so domestically."

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Just as our companies should not exhibit anti-labor, unreasonable behavior overseas, foreign companies should not do so domestically.

Lee shared a news report detailing the allegations and the Ministry of Employment and Labor's investigation. He recalled a past era when some exemplary global companies were criticized for "anti-labor and opaque management" in South Korea, attributing it to a time when the government pursued anti-labor policies and was rife with corruption. "Now that South Korea is reborn as a model society and a model government leading the world, such outdated management practices cannot be tolerated," he emphasized.

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There were times when exemplary global companies in other countries were criticized for anti-labor and opaque management only in our country.

The President vowed strict action, stating, "If the investigation thoroughly reveals the facts, we will take stern measures in accordance with international standards." The controversy highlights ongoing tensions surrounding labor rights and corporate conduct in South Korea, particularly concerning foreign-invested companies.

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Now that South Korea is reborn as a model society and a model government leading the world, such outdated management practices cannot be tolerated.