Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon stated on September 15 that the labor exemptions being discussed in the process of establishing the Mega Special Zone Law represent a path not yet taken by our society. He proposed a 'one-point social dialogue' regarding labor exemptions related to the Mega Special Zone Law.
During a briefing at the Government Seoul Complex, Kim emphasized that the government is pushing for the enactment of the Mega Special Zone Law to enhance industrial competitiveness, allowing companies in advanced sectors like semiconductors and artificial intelligence (AI) to prepare for the future alongside local communities.
The government is working on the Mega Special Zone Law to foster economic growth and strategic industries in five major regions. However, the inclusion of large-scale labor exemption provisions, such as white-collar exemptions (exceptions to working hour regulations for high-income workers), has sparked significant backlash from labor groups.
On September 3, President Lee Jae-myung also discussed the Mega Special Zone Law with the leaders of the two major labor unions. At that meeting, the unions suggested resolving issues related to the Mega Special Zone Law through social dialogue, to which President Lee agreed.
Kim's request for social dialogue appears to be a follow-up to this discussion. He noted, 'The labor exemptions being discussed in the Mega Special Zone Law are a path not yet taken by our society,' acknowledging that there will inevitably be differences of opinion between companies requesting exemptions and workers expressing concerns.
He added, 'It is essential for both labor and management, as stakeholders, to engage in sufficient dialogue with each other,' emphasizing that discussions could encompass not only labor exemptions but also proposals aimed at protecting workers' health and enhancing corporate productivity.
Kim concluded by stating, 'This will be a platform for dialogue and compromise where stakeholders can directly discuss strengthening industrial competitiveness and creating quality jobs.' He urged all parties involved in social dialogue to come together for the sake of future job opportunities and the future of society during this unprecedented transition.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.