26 July, 2007Korean metalworkers win wage gains and improved conditions.
SOUTH KOREA: About 22,000 members of the Korean Metalworkers’ Union (KMWU) went on strike for two to six hours over a period of July 18-24 demanding improvements in the minimum wage, collective bargaining power, trade with subcontractors and labour security.
Agreement was reached on July 25. Worker gains include:
The KMWU is positioning itself for industry-wide negotiations, but four automakers, Hyundai Motor, Kia Motors, GM Daewoo and SsangYong Motor, which account for about 60 percent of the 143,000-strong membership, have refused to engage in recent discussions for fear of “double bargaining.”
Agreement was reached on July 25. Worker gains include:
- An 8 per cent increase in the minimum wage, set for next year at 900,000 won ($985 USD). The new wage applies to all employees, including temporary and migrant workers.
- Management agreed to inform the union 70 days before any planned corporate division, merger or sale and execute the plans with the consent of the union.
- Companies agreed to provide fair terms to subcontracting firms.
- The union and management will set up a joint committee to secure employment in the metal industry.
The KMWU is positioning itself for industry-wide negotiations, but four automakers, Hyundai Motor, Kia Motors, GM Daewoo and SsangYong Motor, which account for about 60 percent of the 143,000-strong membership, have refused to engage in recent discussions for fear of “double bargaining.”