Choi Taewon Meets Labor Minister, Says "Companies Concerned About Trade Union Act Amendments"

Emphasizing the Need to Respond to Changes in the Labor Environment Driven by AI Adoption

Choi Taewon, Chairman of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), met with Kim Younghoon, Minister of Employment and Labor, to express concerns regarding the so-called "Yellow Envelope Law." During their meeting, they also exchanged views on changes in the labor market driven by artificial intelligence (AI) technological innovation and rapidly shifting external conditions, agreeing to work together to strengthen the competitiveness of Korean industries.

On July 24, at the KCCI headquarters in Jung-gu, Seoul, Chairman Choi stated, "Companies are paying close attention to changes in the employment and labor environment, and it is true that there are some worries. Issues such as ordinary wages and the Serious Accidents Punishment Act have been ongoing, but recently there has been continuous talk about amending Articles 2 and 3 of the Trade Union Act. In addition, the newly raised issue of extending the retirement age is naturally a major concern for companies."

Minister of Employment and Labor Younghoon Kim and Chairman Taewon Choi of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry are meeting and exchanging opinions on the 24th at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry building in Jung-gu, Seoul. Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry

This meeting was part of Minister Kim's ongoing communication with leaders of economic organizations. Since his candidacy, Minister Kim has stated that he would support the revision of Articles 2 and 3 of the Trade Union and Labor Relations Adjustment Act through immediate government-party consultations upon his appointment.

Chairman Choi also addressed changes in the labor and management environment resulting from AI adoption. He emphasized, "With the introduction of AI technology, the frameworks we have traditionally maintained, such as the labor environment, will inevitably change. We need to create a new framework that suits the specific circumstances of Korea."

He also shared his views on labor flexibility and the accompanying changes. Chairman Choi remarked, "Currently, we only envision environments where everyone starts and finishes work at the same time or operates in shifts to run factories. However, with the introduction of AI, if labor becomes more flexible and humans and AI work together, it may no longer be the case that everyone does the same work at the same time. I believe this could bring about significant changes in both work and employment."

Chairman Choi predicted that, with the adoption of AI technology, working conditions would evolve into forms that allow employees to commute freely at their preferred times, directly impacting productivity. He said, "The frameworks surrounding labor and employment must also evolve and change. While it is difficult to predict the future, it is essential for Korea to quickly embrace these changes to continuously maintain competitiveness in manufacturing and traditional industries."

In addition, the two discussed the rapidly changing external environment, including AI technological innovation.

Meanwhile, the meeting was also attended by Park Joobong, Chairman of the Incheon Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Park Iljun, Executive Vice Chairman of the KCCI; and Lee Hyunghee, Vice Chairman of the Seoul Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Chairman of the SK SUPEX Council Communication Committee).