Won Hee-ryong Visits Busan New Port: "Will Not Compromise with Illegality"

Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Won Hee-ryong is talking with representatives of terminal operators and transportation companies at a luncheon meeting held at Busan New Port on the 5th.

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Min-young] On the 5th, Won Hee-ryong, Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, reiterated the principle of strict response regarding the Cargo Solidarity strike.

Minister Won visited Busan New Port in the afternoon on the 12th day of the Cargo Solidarity's collective transportation refusal and stated, "There are opinions that the government should create an opportunity for the Cargo Solidarity to return promptly, but on this occasion, we will not compromise with illegality to prevent the recurrence of wrongful practices."

Minister Won visited the temporary office set up at Busan New Port to inspect the damage situation such as container loading and unloading status and held a luncheon meeting with port operators and transportation company officials on site.

Port operators and transportation company officials explained, "With significant help from government-owned cargo trucks deployed on site, transshipment cargo transportation has returned to normal levels, and export-import containers are at about 50-60% of usual levels."

However, the officials conveyed on-site difficulties, saying, "Resolving logistics disruptions at Uiwang ICD is urgent, and although a temporary bypass road is being operated within Busan New Port to avoid the Cargo Solidarity, the road is narrow, raising safety concerns."

In response, Minister Won said, "It is fortunate that container cargo volume is improving due to the work commencement order issued in the cement sector on November 29," and added, "At yesterday’s ministerial meeting, various measures were prepared to resolve the on-site difficulties you mentioned today, and they will be implemented promptly."