Kim Meets Labor Leaders Over Pending Issues Including the Mega-Special Zone Law: “We Will Engage in Dialogue and Reach Agreements to the Greatest Extent Possible”

[Financial News] Kim Min-seok, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, stated on the 10th that he would strive to reach an agreement with the labor sector on major pending issues, such as whether to include a 'white-collar exemption' clause in the Mega Special Zones Act and the consolidation of public institutions and their subsequent relocation to provincial areas.
Representative Kim visited the conference room of the Federation of Korean Trade Unions in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, on this day. This was a courtesy visit following his inauguration as party leader.
Kim Dong-myeong, Chairman of the Federation of Korean Trade Unions (FKTU), who welcomed Representative Kim on this day, stated, "The FKTU fully understands the concerns of the government and the ruling party regarding the future of South Korea and industrial competitiveness, such as mega-special zones and the relocation of public institutions to provincial areas," but added, "However, the value and rights of labor must not regress in the process of preparing for the future."
Chairman Kim urged, "The way politics secures cooperation from the labor sector must not be through deregulation like in the past, but through future-oriented solutions that enable labor and industry to develop together," adding, "Regarding the issue of extending the retirement age, we have already promised it more than enough on several occasions, and it is already a matter that is overdue. Please keep that promise now."
In response, Representative Kim stated, "I fully agree with Chairman Kim's remarks," adding, "I will not rush with impatience, but will resolve the issue with insight into principles. I will ensure that we become a relationship where we reach actual agreements and realize them."
He added, "Since we are responsible for state affairs, we will give priority consideration to both the mega-special zones and the relocation of public institutions, but we will appropriately engage in the maximum possible dialogue and reach agreements during the process of formulating and implementing plans." He continued, "We will not say, 'It is a good cause, so follow along.' We will change our approach to making proposals and consulting to one of saying, 'It is a good cause, so let's work together.'"

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