Im I-ja, Ruling Party Secretary of the Environment and Labor Committee, Press Conference
Discussion with MZ Union and Experts on the 16th
The People Power Party has decided to meet with the MZ labor union and others who oppose the proposed reform of the working hours system, which would allow up to 69 hours of work, to discuss possible improvements. This move comes as President Yoon Seok-yeol ordered a review of the working hours reform plan on the 14th, providing support for the initiative.
Im Eui-ja, a member of the National Assembly from the People Power Party and the floor leader of the Environment and Labor Committee, held a press conference at the National Assembly Communication Office in the afternoon and announced, "On the 16th at 10 a.m., a forum will be held at the National Assembly to hear voices from the field, inviting MZ generation labor unions, IT companies, and experts regarding the improvement of the working hours system."
She added, "The reform of the working hours system has caused misunderstandings that it would lead to long working hours due to fake news and lack of communication between generations. To alleviate these concerns and ensure the purpose is properly implemented, our People Power Party will strengthen communication with the field."
After the press conference, Im told reporters, "The President likely wants us to listen carefully to many opinions during the legislative notice period until April 17 to dispel concerns." She said, "We will listen to many opinions at the forum on the 16th and address any concerns by making necessary improvements."
When asked about alternatives to alleviate the MZ generation's concerns about extended working hours, she said, "There seems to be a lot of concern about the idea that work would be concentrated and then employees would be given time for self-development later. We plan to have sufficient dialogue, and since there are talks about capping the maximum overtime hours, we will consider areas where labor and management can discuss."
Earlier that day, President Yoon instructed, as conveyed by Chief Public Relations Officer Kim Eun-hye in a written briefing, "During the legislative notice period, carefully listen to the diverse opinions of workers, especially those of the MZ generation, and review points for improvement regarding the bill's content and communication with the public."
The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced a draft amendment to the Labor Act on the 6th, which includes changing the unit for managing extended working hours, currently grouped weekly, from 52 hours per week to allowing agreements between labor and management to set it by month, quarter, half-year, or year. If the system is reformed, the maximum weekly working hours could be extended up to 69 hours.
In response, the MZ labor union Saerogochim Workers' Council expressed opposition on the 9th, stating, "'Expanding the unit for managing extended working hours' is an element that goes against the international community's efforts and historical progress to raise minimum standards for working conditions."
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