Won Hee-ryong: "Construction Union is a Parasite to the Economy... Full Investigation of Illegal Activities"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Min-young] Won Hee-ryong, Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, stated, "We will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the illegal activities of construction labor unions and, if necessary, request investigations by the prosecution and police."

On the morning of the 20th, Minister Won visited an apartment construction site in Sejong and made these remarks while listening to industry opinions regarding the illegal activities of construction labor unions.

At the site, Minister Won pointed out, "The productivity lost due to the illegal activities of construction labor unions is directly reflected in the production costs and sale prices of construction companies," adding, "Construction labor unions have become a poison parasitizing the economy."

He also emphasized, "When hiring and equipment use are forced at construction sites, and money is extorted under the name of monthly fees, the majority of ordinary workers suffer. We will no longer overlook these issues."

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, together with the police, will conduct a special crackdown on illegal activities at construction sites for 200 days until June 25 of next year. They plan to inspect all past incidents, including the practice of subcontractors responsible for basic and framework construction paying monthly fees to tower crane operators, forced union membership, and forced hiring by construction labor unions.

Regarding this, Minister Won said, "Receiving monthly fees at construction sites is illegal as it violates the prohibition of business association activities under the Fair Trade Act," and added, "The Fair Trade Commission will launch a comprehensive investigation related to monthly fees."

Minister Won added, "If data is not submitted or if intimidation and violence are used, the case will proceed to prosecution and police investigations."

He further explained, "Many workers raise concerns about labor unions accumulating union dues and then using them to force strikes or collective actions, engaging in political struggles nationwide," pointing out issues with the accounting practices of labor unions.

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