Kwon Seong-dong: "The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions' Anti-American Struggle Is Contradictory in Itself... An Old and Dangerous Ideology"

Kwon Seong-dong, Acting Leader of the People Power Party, is attending a virtual party meeting held at the National Assembly on the 9th. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Byung-don] Kwon Seong-dong, floor leader of the People Power Party, criticized the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions' (KCTU) August 15 National Workers' Rally, saying it is "only nominally a workers' rally, but in essence a political struggle and anti-American struggle."

On the 13th, Kwon wrote on his Facebook, "The name of the August 15 National Workers' Rally was the 'Independent Peaceful Reunification Rally,' and they demanded the suspension of the South Korea-U.S. joint military exercises and opposed South Korea-U.S.-Japan military cooperation."

He added, "It seems that the KCTU believes, like the delusions of the 1980s activist groups, that the Republic of Korea is a colony of American imperialism," and questioned, "Is that why they shouted blatant anti-American slogans in the heart of Seoul?"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Kwon said, "Labor unions exist to protect and promote the rights and interests of workers. They also have a social responsibility for labor-management harmony," but "the KCTU has acted in the exact opposite way. They have frequently engaged in illegal strikes and violent acts, even intimidating fellow workers."

He especially emphasized, "Above all, the anti-American struggle is incomprehensible," stating, "Under the South Korea-U.S. alliance, we have developed liberal democracy and a market economy, achieving miracles and rising to the ranks of advanced countries. The benefits of rapid growth have also reached workers."

Kwon said, "Now, militant unions like the KCTU have already become vested interests in society," adding, "Therefore, the militant unions' anti-American struggle is inherently contradictory. It denies the South Korea-U.S. alliance, which has benefited not only workers but all citizens."

He concluded, "The KCTU must return to being a labor union," and warned, "It must not become a host for forces trying to shake the Republic of Korea as it is now. If they continue political struggles with outdated and dangerous ideologies, they will not be able to avoid public condemnation."