<기사제목>Ruling and Opposition Parties Clash Over the 'Yellow Envelope Act': "Exemption for Illegal Acts" VS "Guarantee of Union Activities"

Eunju Lee, Emergency Committee Chair of the Justice Party, holds a press conference on the 15th at the National Assembly Communication Hall to propose the "Yellow Envelope Act" (Amendment to the Labor Union Act). Photo by Dongju Yoon doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Minji Lee] The ruling and opposition parties engaged in a fierce debate at the National Assembly Environment and Labor Committee plenary session over the so-called 'Yellow Envelope Act (Amendment to the Labor Union and Labor Relations Adjustment Act),' which limits companies' claims for damages against striking workers.

The committee debate on the 15th took place as the Justice Party, along with 46 members of the Democratic Party, jointly proposed the Yellow Envelope Act as a party policy. The ruling party expressed concerns that the Yellow Envelope Act would serve as a carte blanche for illegal strikes, severely hindering corporate operations. The opposition emphasized the need for legal amendments, arguing that excessive damage claims restrict union activities.

The term 'Yellow Envelope Act' originated in 2014 during the Ssangyong Motor strike, when workers were ordered to pay 4.7 billion won in damages, and a citizen delivered a donation of 47,000 won in a yellow envelope.

On the day, Im Eui-ja of the People Power Party stated, "When such (strike) actions occur through legitimate procedures, purposes, and means, our labor union law exempts civil and criminal liability. However, if illegal and unlawful acts are also exempted, how will we regulate companies in Korea? If small and medium-sized enterprises continue to be exempted, conduct illegal strikes, and go bankrupt, who will take responsibility?" he raised his voice.

In contrast, Kim Young-jin of the Democratic Party countered, "The basic principle is that workers do not strike to carry out illegal strikes in labor relations. Using extreme examples like 'what if the company goes bankrupt due to illegal strikes' is an excessive interpretation," adding, "I believe there are no workers who exploit their workplaces, jobs, and ultimately their survival for such purposes in the labor field."

From the same party, Lee Hak-young said, "Rather than a genuine intention to claim damages, this is a political retaliation and suppression aimed at cutting off the roots of labor unions."

In response, Jeon Hae-cheol, chair of the Environment and Labor Committee, said, "Regarding the issues raised about the Yellow Envelope Act, prompt and substantive discussions in the subcommittee are necessary," adding, "The government should quickly submit what it has promised and prepared, and I urge the committee members to schedule the subcommittee for substantive discussions."

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