Kim Young-hoon, Minister of Employment and Labor, stated regarding discussions on applying exceptions to the 52nd-hour weekly workweek under the Mega Special Zone Act, "We will seek reasonable solutions based on factual findings through social dialogue with the two major labor unions."
As discussions on easing labor regulations surrounding the Mega Special Zone Act have gained momentum, the government has decided that key issues, including whether to apply exceptions to the 52nd-hour weekly workweek, will be determined through labor-management dialogue and inter-ministerial consultations.
Kim Young-hoon said at a lunch briefing for press correspondents held at Sejong Government Complex on the 5th, "We are currently in the process of allowing discussions related to the Mega Special Zone Act to mature," adding, "Since the President has recently returned from abroad, I believe sufficient consultations among various ministries will take place moving forward."
He further stated, "As we have proposed meetings with the two major labor unions and social dialogue, we will communicate fully with the labor sector. While we may not be able to eliminate differences in positions, we believe solutions will emerge if we find reasonable alternatives based on factual findings." He added, "The President also said, 'Creating opportunities within crises is the role of planners,' and we will strive to identify opportunities amidst challenges."
He continued, "Even with certain conditions, we highly value the determination of the two major labor unions to engage in social dialogue. I am someone who facilitates such dialogues," and expressed confidence in resolving issues through dialogue by stating, "I have never thought that Samsung Electronics' wage negotiations would ever lead to a breakdown."
Kim Young-hoon emphasized, "Discussions on operating working hours more flexibly during the research and development process can certainly be held. While we may not eliminate differences in positions, we should find reasonable alternatives based on factual findings."
Regarding demands for easing labor regulations such as expanding dispatch work systems and improving fixed-term employment systems raised around Mega Special Zones, he also expressed the view that since these are long-standing requests from businesses, they can be discussed rationally.
On the Trade Union Act, Kim Young-hoon explained that the President's directive does not mean newly amending the Trade Union Act but rather prioritizing administrative improvements through enforcement decrees and rules. He also clarified that while business decisions themselves are not subject to negotiation, sufficient consultations are necessary when large-scale restructuring or changes in working conditions are involved.
Regarding the President's proposal on utilizing excess tax revenues for performance-based bonuses, he explained, "The government is not dictating how all performance bonuses should be handled," adding, "We are currently reviewing measures to implement the President's directive and plan to finalize details by August."
He also introduced new policy initiatives, including the first career responsibility system supported by the state for youth entering the labor market and the K Labor Welfare Council (provisional name), a public welfare delivery system for non-regular workers.
During the briefing session today, questions and answers continued on major labor issues such as minimum wage, workplace harassment in establishments with fewer than five employees, extreme heat, and legislation on the right to disconnect.
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