SEOUL – Unionized Seoul subway workers have announced their intention to hold a second strike on November 22 in response to Seoul Metro's proposed workforce reduction. The strike is being organized by the largest of three labor unions of Seoul Metro, responsible for operating subway lines 1-8.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Yonhap News Agency, the strike is a continuation of the labor dispute following a two-day "warning" strike last week by the union, which is affiliated with the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU). The workers are protesting Seoul Metro's plan to cut its workforce by 13.5 percent, or 2,212 employees, by 2026. This reduction is part of the company's efforts to address a significant deficit.
The union criticized the Seoul metropolitan government and Seoul Metro for not addressing their concerns about on-site safety resulting from the proposed staff cuts. Seoul Metro, with a cumulative deficit of 18.4 trillion won (US$14 billion), insists that downsizing is crucial for financial stability. The company offered to increase new hires this year, but the proposal was rejected by the KCTU-affiliated union.