Cargo Solidarity Union stages sit-in at Hite Jinro headquarters... Occupies rooftop and lobby with flammable materials (Comprehensive)

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Song Seung-yoon] The Cargo Solidarity of the Korean Public Service and Transport Workers' Union (KPTU) is occupying and protesting at the HiteJinro headquarters.

According to HiteJinro on the 16th, around 6:10 a.m., about 70 Cargo Solidarity union members entered the HiteJinro headquarters building in Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. They reportedly occupied the first-floor entrance and blocked access to and from the building. Some of them climbed to the rooftop and hung banners reading "Crush Union Suppression," "Withdraw Compensation and Seizure," and "Reinstate All Dismissed Workers."

The sudden occupation by Cargo Solidarity blocked some employees' commute, leading to physical altercations between employees and union members. Some union members on the rooftop were reported to be carrying flammable materials. The police deployed about 300 officers to the scene, and the fire department installed an air cushion in front of the building in preparation for any emergencies.

A HiteJinro official said, "Due to the sudden illegal occupation, employees are unable to perform their duties normally," adding, "Active law enforcement intervention is necessary."

The union is demanding that HiteJinro cancel recent lawsuits for damages filed against union members. They are also calling for the withdrawal of injunctions against business obstruction, reinstatement of dismissed union members, and the adjustment of transportation fees to realistic levels.

The conflict between HiteJinro and Cargo Solidarity has been ongoing for five months. Around 130 truck owners affiliated with Suyang Logistics, a subcontracted freight carrier for HiteJinro, joined the Cargo Solidarity under the KPTU at the end of March and began striking. Starting with a partial strike in March and escalating to a full strike in June, they have continued obstructive actions such as illegally parking trucks near the factory entrances of the Icheon and Cheongju plants or blocking access roads. Their demands include increased transportation fees and empty container charges, as well as payments for vehicle advertising, idling, and waiting times.

Earlier, the HiteJinro Gangwon plant experienced shipment disruptions due to Cargo Solidarity protests starting from the 2nd of this month. Shipments are currently proceeding normally. Last month, shipments of soju and other alcoholic beverages were halted at the Icheon and Cheongju plants due to protests.