During Chuseok Holiday Strike, Three Workers Sued for Stuffing Toilet Paper in Incheon Airport Toilets

Controversy Over Toilet Damage During Chuseok Holiday Strike
Incheon International Airport Corporation: "Intentional Act, Requested Investigation"

Regarding the incident of repeated toilet clogs at Incheon International Airport during the Chuseok holiday period, Incheon International Airport Corporation has filed a complaint against workers, prompting the police to launch a full-scale investigation.

Photo of the toilet bowl at Incheon International Airport, disclosed by Kim Eunhye, a member of the People Power Party, during the National Assembly Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee audit on the 27th. National Assembly Broadcasting YouTube

According to the Incheon International Airport Police Unit and other sources on November 19, Incheon International Airport Corporation filed a complaint on November 7 against three individuals, including Mr. A, a member of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, on charges of joint property damage and obstruction of business under the Act on the Punishment of Violent Acts. The corporation believes that these individuals intentionally clogged the airport toilets by stuffing toilet paper during the workers' strike that took place over the Chuseok holiday in October.

A police official stated, "It is true that we have received the complaint, but the number of suspects may change depending on the outcome of the investigation, so we cannot confirm it at this time."

This incident was also raised at the National Assembly Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee audit on October 27. Assemblywoman Kim Eunhye of the People Power Party stressed the need for legal action, stating, "Clogging toilets and throwing waste are clear acts of obstruction of business." Lee Hakjae, President of Incheon International Airport Corporation, also said, "We determined there was intent and requested an investigation."

Earlier, the National Airport Workers' Solidarity-composed of the Incheon Airport Branch of the Public Transport Workers' Union under the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions and the National Airport Workers' Union-went on strike on October 1, demanding improved working conditions.

On October 4, the National Airport Workers' Union returned to work, while the Incheon Airport Branch switched to a strike by executives from October 13 and continued negotiations with management. However, as negotiations stalled, the National Airport Workers' Solidarity resumed a strike at 14 airports nationwide starting at midnight on October 29.