President Lee Jae-myung criticized global furniture giant IKEA on July 10 for its handling of a parental leave controversy, stating, "Just as our companies should not exhibit anti-labor behavior abroad, foreign companies must not do so domestically."
Lee made the remarks on X (formerly Twitter) while sharing a news report alleging that IKEA demoted an employee who returned from parental leave and pressured them to resign.
He noted, "There have been times when exemplary global companies in other countries have faced criticism for anti-labor and opaque management practices specifically in our country. This was during a period when our government implemented anti-labor policies and was mired in corruption. However, as South Korea transforms into a leading model society and government, such outdated management practices cannot be tolerated."
Lee emphasized, "If the allegations are confirmed through a thorough investigation, we will take strict action in accordance with international standards."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.