Hanwha Ocean Union Removes Executive's Computer and Office Equipment in Protest Over 'Excessive Disciplinary Actions for Safety Violations'

At Hanwha Ocean’s facility in Geoje, South Gyeongsang Province, labor-management conflict over disciplinary actions related to workplace safety incidents has escalated into physical confrontation. The situation has become increasingly contentious after the labor union entered the executive offices and removed office supplies.

According to Hanwha Ocean and other sources on April 28, the Hanwha Ocean branch of the Korean Metal Workers’ Union entered the manufacturing general office earlier that morning and moved out office items, including computers, chairs, and telephones. The company regarded this as unauthorized removal of property and immediately demanded their return and an apology, warning that legal action would be considered if their requests were not met.

Hanwha Ocean union took office supplies such as computers, telephones, and chairs, causing disorder in the manufacturing general office of Hanwha Ocean.
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This incident arose after the company decided to discipline those involved in a recent safety accident.

Previously, Hanwha Ocean finalized disciplinary measures for 11 individuals who violated safety work guidelines in connection with two safety incidents that occurred in February and March of this year.

Regarding the service tower collision that took place in February, the company decided to suspend two signalers for one month and reduce the salary of the driver by one month. Their supervisors-workplace foremen and part chiefs-were also given warnings and reprimands, respectively.

For the platform fall accident in March, the company finalized disciplinary actions according to company regulations. The signaler who was absent from the scene during the accident received a one-month suspension, the workplace foreman was reprimanded, and both the part chief and team leader received warnings.

While the union argues that these disciplinary actions are excessive, the company maintains a “zero tolerance” policy, insisting on clear accountability for violations of safety guidelines. With both sides’ perspectives remaining far apart, the conflict continues to unfold.

A Hanwha Ocean representative explained, “Compliance with safety regulations is the most fundamental principle at the workplace,” adding, “We are responding to these matters in accordance with established principles.”

Within the labor community, there are voices calling for discussion regarding the appropriateness of the level and procedures of the disciplinary actions. However, there are also concerns being raised about whether physical actions within the workplace are helpful in resolving the conflict.

This incident is likely to spark further debate over safety management standards, levels of discipline, and communication methods between labor and management.

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