A large-scale "indefinite strike" commenced on Wednesday (Oct. 1) at 15 airports across South Korea, including the major Seoul Incheon International Airport. The strike, which may extend through the Chuseok (Korean Mid-Autumn Festival) holiday period, risks disrupting air travel before and after the holiday, potentially affecting over 5 million passengers.
The Korean Public Service and Transport Workers' Union, representing 15,000 workers at these airports, is demanding improved working conditions and more flexible working hour arrangements. The union has stated that the strike will continue until its demands are met.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the affected airports include major hubs such as Seoul Incheon Airport and Gimpo Airport. Approximately 2,300 of the participating workers are responsible for tasks such as runway maintenance, airport fire services, and electrical upkeep. The strike began at 6:00 am local time on Wednesday. Union members held a rally at Terminal 1 of Incheon Airport at 9:30 am the same day, followed by a gathering and march at Gimpo Airport. The union is calling on authorities to provide more reasonable salaries, increased vacation time, and a safer working environment.
With South Korea's week-long Chuseok holiday starting this Friday, the combined passenger traffic at the affected airports during this period is expected to reach 5 million. The tourism industry is concerned that the strike could hinder travel for both domestic and international tourists. However, the Korea Airports Corporation, responsible for managing airport operations, stated that since security screening personnel are not participating in this strike, the impact on flights is expected to be limited. Authorities have pledged to deploy additional resources to minimize inconvenience to travelers.
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