President Lee meets major labor unions to discuss retirement age and mega projects

President Lee Jae-myung met with the leaders of South Korea’s two major labor unions, the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) and the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), to discuss critical labor issues and national projects.

A primary focus of the meeting was the extension of the retirement age. Both the government and the labor leaders agreed that the National Assembly should reach a conclusion on legislation regarding retirement age extension within the year, following deliberations by the special committee.

The discussions also covered the government’s ‘three mega projects’ and the potential relaxation of the 52-hour work week rule in specific areas, such as the Honam semiconductor mega-special zone. Labor leaders emphasized the need for social dialogue and active participation of the labor sector to ensure these projects succeed and to resolve legislative disputes.

Additionally, the President addressed the transition of labor due to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the need to resolve ‘K-shaped’ economic polarization. He welcomed moves within the labor unions to return to social dialogue, urging a collaborative approach between labor, management, and the government to tackle these national challenges.