# Seoul city bus labor dispute

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/seoul-city-bus-labor-dispute
> Updated: 2026-09-10T01:46:07.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2.

Seoul city bus operators and labor unions are facing a potential strike on September 16 following a deadlock in wage negotiations. The dispute centers on requested pay increases and the specific monthly standard used to calculate ordinary wages.

The Seoul City Bus Labor Union is demanding a 7.85% hourly wage increase and the adoption of a 176-hour monthly standard. Conversely, the Seoul City Bus Transport Business Association has proposed a 10.32% increase based on a 209-hour monthly standard, arguing that the union’s terms would add approximately 539.4 billion won in annual labor costs.

If a second mediation meeting scheduled for September 15 fails to resolve the impasse, the strike is expected to commence with the first bus service on the 16th. The association is currently coordinating with the Seoul Metropolitan Government to prepare alternative transportation measures.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-10: Seoul city bus strike looms over wage dispute

Seoul city bus labor unions have threatened a strike on the 16th due to a dispute over ordinary wage standards and a requested 7.85% pay increase.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/seoul-city-bus-strike-looms-over-wage-dispute

### 2026-08-27: Ulsan City announces emergency measures ahead of bus strike

Ulsan City has announced emergency transport plans as bus workers prepare to strike on August 28 following failed wage negotiations, potentially affecting 108 routes and 709 vehicles.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ulsan-city-announces-emergency-measures-ahead-of-bus-strike

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Cite as: Seoul city bus labor dispute. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/seoul-city-bus-labor-dispute