“South Korea: Unions to ensure workers’ wages as COVID-19 is put “under control””, 3 April 2020

The Korean Federation of Construction Industry Trade Unions (KFCITU) is taking action to ensure that workers, especially those on daily employment contracts, on several construction sites that shut down due to COVID-19, are paid in full. While most construction projects continued to operate without any real stoppage, around ten sites were closed for a few days.

 “As far as we know there have been no job losses as a result of COVID-19. However, the limited supply of building materials is creating challenges. We are expecting that there will be fewer jobs in the future as the industry shrinks,” said Jang Ok-Ji, President of KFCITU, speaking from prison.

“We have cancelled large union gatherings and toolbox meetings. We have also implemented fixed schedules for the use of our canteens to minimise close contact with fellow workers,” Jang added…