The ruling Democratic Party has proposed the 'Super Wide Area Special Zone Law' to support three major mega-projects, including the Honam semiconductor cluster. The Ministry of Employment and Labor, which is facilitating labor-management dialogue, expressed its intention to ensure that the results of the one-point social dialogue regarding labor exceptions are reflected in the legislative review process.
On October 20, Democratic Party floor leader Han Byung-do stated during a National Assembly meeting on government audits, "We will introduce the Super Wide Area Special Zone Law to support corporate investment and local-led growth. This law aims to expand growth opportunities concentrated in the capital region to the entire nation, enabling each region to lead South Korea's future centered around strategic industries."
The proposed law aims to create super wide area special zones by grouping local governments into a single economic zone, which would include provisions for expedited permits and financial, fiscal, and regulatory support for businesses. Initially, the Democratic Party considered naming the law the Mega Special Zone Act but decided on the Super Wide Area Special Zone Law instead.
The ruling party plans to prioritize the inclusion of labor exceptions in the law, with plans to introduce a separate bill excluding these exceptions in the future. Labor-management dialogue is currently underway to discuss labor exceptions to be included in the Super Wide Area Special Zone Law, such as exemptions from the 52-hour workweek and the 2+2 system for fixed-term contracts.
According to the Ministry of Labor, social dialogue involving labor, management, and relevant government agencies is ongoing. Since a preparatory meeting at the vice-ministerial level on September 18, five rounds of practical consultations have taken place.
The government has stated that it will ensure ample discussion before the bill's passage. The Ministry of Labor noted, "We will not set a deadline for social dialogue and will engage in thorough deliberation and discussion. We plan to make every effort to establish reasonable measures that can enhance competitiveness in advanced industries such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence (AI) and contribute to creating a healthy and sustainable labor environment."
It added, "We will closely consult with the National Assembly to ensure that the results of social dialogue are reflected in the legislative review process."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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