Ministry of Employment Urges Minju Nochong to Hold Rally Itself... "Problems Must Be Solved Through Dialogue"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Jung-yoon] The Ministry of Employment and Labor expressed concern on the 24th over the decision by the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) to proceed with a general strike and urged restraint in holding rallies.

The Ministry stated, "(The KCTU) has decided to hold press conferences with fewer than 10 people in the Seoul area and to proceed with rallies in other regions. Considering the public concern over the resurgence of COVID-19, we earnestly request restraint in holding such gatherings."

Earlier on the same day, the KCTU reaffirmed its position to go ahead with the general strike scheduled for the 25th and plans to hold rallies nationwide, including in Seoul. In accordance with Seoul's quarantine guidelines prohibiting gatherings of 10 or more people, the KCTU plans to hold sporadic press conferences with fewer than 10 participants at locations such as the Democratic Party offices in each district. However, since quarantine rules vary by region, large-scale rallies are possible in some local areas.

The Ministry expressed relief that "the KCTU has respected the strengthened quarantine guidelines and decided to withdraw plans for large-scale rallies in the Seoul area," adding, "In a situation where everyone is facing great difficulties due to COVID-19, we urge efforts to resolve issues through dialogue rather than a general strike, and we request the KCTU's magnanimous cooperation to ensure that the general strike and rallies do not endanger the safety and lives of the public."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.