Bus, taxi workers feel vulnerable over self-driving future
Seoul’s push to expand the use of autonomous buses and taxis is raising questions about the future of transport workers, with unionized drivers calling for stronger safeguards and a greater say in a transition that could eventually threaten their jobs. While city officials say the technology will initially help address driver shortages rather than displace workers, union representatives want…
Seoul's initiative to increase the use of autonomous buses and taxis has sparked concerns about the future of transport workers. Unionized drivers are demanding stronger safeguards and a larger role in a transition that could potentially jeopardize their employment. City officials maintain that the technology will initially alleviate driver shortages rather than eliminate jobs, but union representatives seek clarity on job security, passenger safety, and liability in case of an accident.
A Seoul bus union official, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed reservations about the technology. "Self-driving technology should be limited to supporting human drivers, instead of replacing them," the official stated. "Operating without humans is neither feasible nor desirable." He emphasized that drivers' duties go beyond steering and braking, encompassing passenger interactions, preventing door-related injuries, and managing unexpected situations.
He endorsed technology that could aid them in mitigating risks like drowsy driving and blind spots, but questioned whether the policy trajectory of replacing human workers was the right path.
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- Bus, taxi workers feel vulnerable over self-driving future koreatimes.co.kr
