Korean Confederation of Trade Unions fails to vote on social dialogue return

The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) failed to reach a decision regarding its return to social dialogue mechanisms during its 85th extraordinary delegate assembly held on October 7. The assembly was adjourned after the number of attending delegates fell below the required quorum for voting.

KCTU President Yang Kyung-soo proposed a motion to pursue social negotiations through the Economic, Social and Labor Council (ESLC). The proposal included three core principles: ensuring consensus-based operations, guaranteeing participation from industrial unions, and changing the name of the existing social dialogue body. Yang argued that participating in social dialogue is necessary to respond to industrial shifts, such as artificial intelligence.

However, the meeting faced opposition from hardline factions within various unions, including the Korean Metal Workers' Union and the Korean Public Service and Transport Workers' Union. These members expressed concerns about being used as mere supporters for labor reforms and cited a lack of trust in the government. As discussions progressed, many delegates left the venue, preventing the assembly from reaching the necessary quorum of 884 members.

The KCTU plans to review its future direction and may consider convening an online delegate assembly to resolve the issue before the upcoming leadership elections in November.