Human Rights Commissioner Welcomes Amendment to 'Workplace Harassment' Law... Calls for Expansion to Businesses with Fewer Than Four Employees

Choi Young-ae, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission.

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] Choi Young-ae, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, issued a statement on the 31st saying, "We welcome the National Assembly's amendment of the 'Labor Standards Act' and the 'Occupational Safety and Health Act' related to workplace harassment on the 24th."

Last July, the Human Rights Commission recommended ▲ protection of workers from harassment by third parties ▲ expansion of application to workplaces with four or fewer employees ▲ introduction of appropriate punishment regulations for perpetrators (offenders) and for employers who violate investigation and action obligations ▲ mandatory workplace harassment prevention education.

The National Assembly reflected the Commission's recommendations by establishing penalty provisions imposing fines of up to 10 million won if the perpetrator is the employer, and up to 5 million won if the employer violates investigation and action obligations or leaks confidential information. It also stipulated protective measures for workers from harassment by third parties and prohibition of unfavorable treatment.

However, the Commission pointed out that punishment is limited only to cases where the perpetrator is the employer or a relative of the employer, and that there are still no punishment provisions for other perpetrators (such as apartment residents or contractors). It also noted that the expansion of application to workplaces with four or fewer employees was not included and demanded future improvements.

Chairperson Choi said, "Workplace harassment is still widespread throughout our society, and tragic incidents such as violations of human dignity continue to occur. In this context, this legal amendment holds a certain significance," adding, "The government and the National Assembly must not neglect continuous efforts to improve and supplement the legal system in the future."

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