Amid nationwide fear of the novel coronavirus infection (Wuhan pneumonia), delivery workers of Baedal Minjok have sparked controversy by demanding not to deliver to areas densely populated by Chinese people. [Image source=Yonhap News]
[Asia Economy Reporter Shinwon Yoon] Amid nationwide fear of the novel coronavirus infection (Wuhan pneumonia), delivery workers for Baedal Minjok have sparked controversy by demanding not to be assigned deliveries to areas densely populated by Chinese residents.
On the 28th, the Baemin Riders branch of the Service General Labor Union under the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions Service Federation sent an official letter titled "Request for Cooperation Regarding Wuhan Pneumonia" to Woowa Brothers, the operator of Baedal Minjok.
In the letter, the union stated that due to the spread of Wuhan pneumonia and the nature of delivery workers who inevitably come into contact with many people, anxiety and risk levels are increasing. They demanded the provision of safety masks until the situation stabilizes, a ban on deliveries to regions with confirmed cases and areas densely populated by Chinese residents, or the payment of hazard pay.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has not prohibited movement between people and has not yet declared a public health emergency.
Moreover, the phrase "areas densely populated by Chinese residents" was criticized for potentially inciting hatred against specific regions.
In response, the Service Federation issued a statement the same day, saying, "There was highly inappropriate hateful language against minorities in the content of the official letter," and "We feel a serious responsibility for the hateful expressions by the affiliated organization (Baemin Riders branch) and offer our apologies to those who were hurt."
They also added, "The federation will issue a warning to the person in charge of the affiliated organization and conduct human rights sensitivity training," and "We will fulfill our social responsibility to prevent vague fears from developing into hatred that damages solidarity among us."
Currently, Woowa Brothers has announced a plan to distribute masks and hand sanitizers to delivery workers to prevent infection. Additionally, while they are not considering setting delivery ban zones, they stated they will follow government guidelines in the future.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
