HMM’s decision to relocate its headquarters from Seoul to Busan is likely to have social repercussions.
The management decision, which could be finalised in May, responds to the government’s repeatedly stated desire to make Busan, a marittime capital for South Korea
According to the trade unions, however, the move could put jobs at risk and disrupt the lives of employees. This is why the union has promised legal action against the employer and has threatened to call a general strike if the company’s board of directors persists with its intention to carry out the relocation.
Union action on the cards include demonstrations during working hours starting on 11th March, a press conference on 26th March, and a general union member assembly and a general strike resolution rally 2nd April. The union has stated that it may intensify its protest with daily demonstrations if the situation evolves.
Translation by Giles Foster