President Lee Orders Comprehensive Investigation into Workplaces Reported for Wage Arrears

Emphasis on Swift Resolution of Wage Arrears Cases
"Increase the Number of Labor Inspectors if Necessary to Improve Administrative Procedures"

On September 8, President Lee Jaemyung ordered a comprehensive investigation into workplaces that have been reported for wage arrears.

Yonhap News Agency

Kang Yujeong, spokesperson for the presidential office, stated during a briefing at the Yongsan presidential office that "President Lee this morning instructed improvements to labor inspection procedures to ensure swift resolution of wage arrears cases, with a particular focus on strengthening labor supervision at workplaces with reported wage arrears."

Spokesperson Kang further explained, "Currently, when a worker reports wage arrears, labor inspectors investigate and supervise only the individual case of the reporter, rather than the entire workplace. As a result, it has been virtually impossible to identify additional victims of wage arrears beyond the initial reporter."

If necessary, President Lee also called for an increase in the number of labor inspectors. He emphasized, "No one should have to suffer the injustice of working without receiving their wages," and added, "If more personnel are needed to change the inspection approach, please improve the administrative process by increasing the number of labor inspectors," according to Spokesperson Kang.