Novelis Korea labor strike prompts government mediation in Yeongju

Kwon Taek-heung, a policy advisor to the Minister of Employment and Labor, visited Yeongju to seek a resolution for the prolonged strike at the Novelis Korea plant. The labor dispute, which began on August 29, centers on disagreements regarding wage agreements, collective bargaining, and performance bonus calculation standards.

While the company partially lifted its workplace closure on October 1, negotiations have failed to reach an agreement after 20 rounds of talks. The ongoing strike has raised concerns about expanding economic damage to subcontractors, the logistics industry, and the local economy in Yeongju.

During his visit, Kwon met with union leadership, local government officials, and members of the Democratic Party to discuss mediation strategies. The Ministry of Employment and Labor has urged local branches to take an active role in mediating a rational and swift settlement. Management and the union are scheduled to continue negotiations twice a week starting next week.