The Korea Semiconductor Industry Association expressed support for the proposed "Special Act on Designation and Operation of Super Wide Area Strategic Industry Special Zones," which includes easing work hour regulations for semiconductor research and development (R&D) personnel.
In a statement on November 2, the association noted that the bill, introduced on October 20, reflects the demands of the semiconductor industry and called for prompt legislative action.
The bill aims to foster strategic industries through collaboration among local governments and provide various support and regulatory relief benefits to companies within the special zones. Notably, it includes provisions for flexible work hours for R&D professionals, an extension of the accounting period for optional work hours, and an increase in the duration of employment for temporary workers.
The association explained that specific phases of the semiconductor development process, such as design, performance verification, and yield improvement, require concentrated research efforts at certain times, necessitating flexible work hour arrangements. They argue that the current system restricts the ability to respond flexibly to technology development schedules.
This bill is seen as distinct from previous discussions as it links the issue of flexible work hours for semiconductor researchers to regional strategic industry development policies rather than individual industry support laws.
The association anticipates that the introduction of flexible work hour provisions will enhance the efficiency of R&D and improve technological competitiveness. They also urged the National Assembly to expedite the processing of the bill, taking into account the unique characteristics of the semiconductor industry during the review process.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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