Kim Kwang-sik, Former Hyundai Union Leader, Advocates for Coexistence and Growth

Kim Kwang-sik, former chairman of the Hyundai Motor Union, speaks during an interview with Aju Economic Daily. — Kim Kwang-sik, former chairman of the Hyundai Motor Union (currently a labor advisor in Ulsan), speaks during an interview with Aju Economic Daily. [Photo by Yoo Dae-gil, dbeorlf123@ajunews.com]

Kim Kwang-sik, a significant figure in South Korea's labor movement, is often associated with the 1998 restructuring crisis at Hyundai Motor. During a period marked by large-scale layoffs following the Asian financial crisis, he led the union's efforts to resist job cuts.
Since then, Kim has continued to play a mediating role in labor relations, working across party lines as a labor advisor for Ulsan City, addressing local labor issues and policies. He has closely monitored labor relations at major local companies, including Hyundai. "I have represented labor, served as an executive in public institutions, and worked to bridge labor and management," he said, reflecting on his journey from a labor activist to a mediator.
Recently, Kim's focus has shifted toward supporting vulnerable workers and migrant laborers. He has participated in initiatives like the 'Name Calling' campaign, where he wrote names on safety helmets for migrant workers in collaboration with local labor and civic groups. "Ulsan is home to major unions like S-OIL, SK, Hyundai Motor, and Hyundai Heavy Industries," he noted, expressing pride in the collaborative efforts of labor and management in the region.
In July, he plans to launch a safety shoe distribution project for workers at businesses with fewer than ten employees, following a suggestion from a Hyundai union branch leader. While large companies provide safety shoes periodically, many workers in smaller firms often continue to wear worn-out footwear. He is also considering initiatives like distributing work uniforms, supporting restaurants for migrant workers, and replacing aging air conditioning units in industrial complex cafeterias.
Looking ahead to next year, Kim expressed interest in launching the 'Oasis Coexistence Solidarity' project. This initiative would involve placing refrigerators in convenience stores where citizens could donate bottled water or beverages purchased through a buy-one-get-one-free offer for elderly individuals and delivery workers. "I want this to be a sustainable social solidarity effort involving businesses, the city, citizens, and labor unions, rather than just a one-time event," he emphasized.
Once a symbol of the struggle against layoffs, Kim now emphasizes the importance of coexistence over victory. He stated, "While we can achieve through struggle, we must avoid overusing the term 'victory' between labor and management. It is essential to work together to grow future value."

* This article has been translated by AI.