Seoul Metro union threatens Nov. 25 general strike over wage, hiring disputes

Seoul Metro's largest labor union has warned of a potential general strike on November 25th if wage and hiring demands are not met. Union 1, responsible for Lines 1-8 and part of Line 9, announced the threat during a press conference following a senior union meeting. Initially demanding a 5.2% wage raise, the union has since reduced its request to 3.5% in talks with management.

They also oppose plans to eliminate 2,212 jobs and request the addition of 1,313 workers to address staffing issues. Additional demands include state funding for public services and the requirement that all field work be performed by teams of two. Union 1 stated that 7,782 members, or 84.6% of the 9,201-member union, recently voted in favor of the strike plan, with 6,715 or 86.3% of those voting supporting the plan.

Both Union 2 and Union 3 also approved the strike plan, with 80.8% and 94.9% of their members voting in favor, respectively. Union 1 plans to launch a "work-to-rule" campaign alongside Union 2 on the following day.