8 out of 10 Citizens Oppose Exemption from Liability for Damages in Illegal Union Strikes

KCCI Announces Related Survey Results

[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] Eight out of ten citizens oppose exempting labor unions from liability for damages caused by illegal strike actions.

The Korea Employers Federation announced on the 4th the results of a nationwide survey of 1,000 adults regarding the 'Amendments to Articles 2 and 3 of the Labor Union Act.'

According to the report, 80.1% of respondents opposed the amendment that would exempt labor unions from civil liability or reduce damages when they engage in illegal (strike) actions such as illegal occupation or violence.

On the other hand, only 19.9% supported granting civil immunity to labor unions for illegal (strike) actions.

Regarding the expansion of the concept of employer, that is, recognizing those who have de facto influence over working conditions as employers under the Labor Union Act, 67.1% of respondents opposed this.

This indicates that the majority of citizens believe that strike actions should be targeted at the affiliated company as their purpose.

Regarding the expansion of the scope of labor disputes, that is, allowing strike actions on 'all matters where there is disagreement between labor and management,' 63.8% of respondents expressed opposition.

This reflects the majority public opinion that it is inappropriate to include rights disputes such as ongoing litigation and management decisions as subjects of union strike actions.

Lee Dong-geun, Senior Vice Chairman of the Korea Employers Federation, stated, “Limiting the employer's right to claim damages for illegal acts infringes on the constitutional property rights, violates the principles of civil liability under civil law, and will result in undermining the rule of law and market order.” He added, “Since the majority of the public opposes this, legislative enforcement through a majority seat should be reconsidered.”