South Korean union accuses waste firm of unfair labor practices, demands city oversight

The Democratic Labor Union Alliance (Minju Nodong) staged a protest outside Iksan City Hall on Tuesday, demanding the city intervene in alleged unfair labor practices by a private company contracted for municipal waste collection and transportation.

“

The labor committee recognized the unfair reassignment, but the suppression of the democratic union continues.

The union asserts that the company has continued to suppress its democratic union activities, even after the regional labor relations commission recognized an unfair reassignment. According to the union, an organizer was demoted and had their wages cut specifically because of their union membership and activities.

Despite the commission's ruling, the company has reportedly continued to criticize union activities and target union leaders, creating a hostile work environment. The union also claims the company denied a manager's training session, which is guaranteed by the collective agreement, while allowing general union meetings, further demonstrating discriminatory practices.

“

The company is continuing to dominate and interfere with union activities, demanding explanations for how evidence was obtained and requiring written statements.

The union emphasized that Iksan City, as the ultimate authority responsible for waste management, must strengthen its oversight of contractors. They pointed to contract clauses requiring compliance with labor laws and demanded the city take immediate action to supervise the company and implement measures to prevent recurrence. The union has filed a complaint against the company's CEO with the Ministry of Employment and Labor.

“

The city, as the principal, must fulfill its responsibility and take responsible measures to prevent illegal acts from recurring.