Amid continued pressure on Korean workers by both companies and the government, it is worth remembering what happened in the aftermath of the financial crisis in 2008. Korean capitalist unleashed a wave of restructuring and reforms targeting all sectors of the workforce.
The Ssangyong Motor Companies workers stood up to these lay offs and fought a heroic battle against the combined forces of the state and capitalists. After 2.5 months they were defeated.
Over a thousand lost their jobs, many were imprisoned, and today there are still two unionists in jail. There is an international campaign to free Han Sang Kyun and Kim Hyuk.
The Korean Metal Workers Union is organising a campaign to pressure the Korean government to release both of these union leaders for the 15th of August. This is Korean Independence Day when the President grants special amnesties to selected prisoners.
The KMWU is asking unions and workers internationally to send letters requesting such a pardon to the Korean Minister of Justice. Letters can be emailed to the KMWU at inter@metal.nodong.org
Amid continued pressure on Korean workers by both companies and the government, it is worth remembering what happened in the aftermath of the financial crisis in 2008. Korean capitalist unleashed a wave of restructuring and reforms targeting all sectors of the workforce.
The Ssangyong Motor Companies workers stood up to these lay offs and fought a heroic battle against the combined forces of the state and capitalists. After 2.5 months they were defeated.
Over a thousand lost their jobs, many were imprisoned, and today there are still two unionists in jail. There is an international campaign to free Han Sang Kyun and Kim Hyuk.
The Korean Metal Workers Union is organising a campaign to pressure the Korean government to release both of these union leaders for the 15th of August. This is Korean Independence Day when the President grants special amnesties to selected prisoners.
The KMWU is asking unions and workers internationally to send letters requesting such a pardon to the Korean Minister of Justice. Letters can be emailed to the KMWU at inter@metal.nodong.org
