Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung criticized attacks on labor unions, likening them to denying historical land reforms and stressing that worker protections form a core constitutional principle.
Key Statements at Labor Market Forum
During the closing of the Labor Market Forum on the 25th, Lee Jae-myung highlighted that major conglomerates operate with unions intact. He noted that post-democratization pressures, including compensation structures, have driven strikes among unionized workers, dismissing biased narratives.
“Farmers remain in place while union training expands,” Lee said. “Without securing their stability, preserving business owners’ full employment principles requires advancing targeted legislation.”
Social Media Rebuttal
On X, Lee countered forum discussions: “Labor market disruptions arise not from unions holding onto workers or offsetting costs inadequately with other measures.”
He added, “Even studies from British business academies acknowledge capitalist firms nurturing unionized workers, yet post-hiring, unions pursue bold objectives—a consistent reality.”
Focus on Employment Principles
Addressing business leaders’ full employment stance—where unions hire and train personnel—Lee emphasized, “Unions build skills for roles only. Dismissing staff demands overriding authorities, as laws explicitly protect against arbitrary firings.”
Lee referenced historical union reforms under Syngman Rhee as aligned precedents.
Opposition Critique
Lee accused rivals of recycling rhetoric from politicians rejecting foundational principles to sway public opinion. “Constitutional business principles neglect worker retention, intensifying labor tensions—this defines certain leadership legacies,” he stated.
His advocacy draws scrutiny for parallels to private farming expansions and social strains, though analysts credit such policies with economic growth foundations. Lee clarified that true leadership transcends corporate priorities alone.
