Democratic Labor Union Apologizes for Confirmed Cases Among Participants at July 3 Workers' Rally... "All Participants Will Undergo Testing"

On the afternoon of the 3rd of this month, members of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) held a nationwide workers' rally, occupying the road in Jongno 3-ga to demand a complete revision of the labor law. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Dong-hoon] The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) publicly apologized for the occurrence of COVID-19 confirmed cases among participants of the nationwide workers' rally held this month. They plan to take measures such as requiring all rally participants to undergo COVID-19 testing.

On the 18th, the KCTU stated in a press release, "As we go through the fourth wave of COVID-19, we apologize for causing concern and worry to those who are enduring great pain, working hard, and dedicating themselves to ending the pandemic, as well as to many who are watching attentively."

On July 3, the KCTU held a nationwide workers' rally in the Jongno area of Seoul, with over 8,000 people (estimated by the organizers) gathering. Recently, three participants were confirmed positive for COVID-19.

Accordingly, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued an administrative order requiring all participants to undergo COVID-19 testing.

The KCTU emphasized, "After receiving reports regarding the confirmed cases, we conducted fact-checking procedures and promptly instructed the rally participants on July 3 to undergo proactive testing. We will do our best to conclude the situation through swift judgment and measures based on the results."

However, the KCTU stated that it is necessary to investigate whether the infection route of the confirmed cases is linked to the nationwide workers' rally, arguing, "It is inappropriate to announce in a way that instills the perception that the July 3 rally was the main source of infection based solely on positive test results from participants at the typical incubation period."

They added, "This is no different from a witch hunt regarding the fourth wave of COVID-19 and could cause serious conflicts in the future," warning of potential consequences.

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