Railway Strike
Railroads and stations across the country were busy on January 3 as the railway workers’ strike came to an end. But full operations have yet to resume, as only 75 percent of scheduled trains are running.
The Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL) has formed a disciplinary committee to begin on January 9 to restructure its labor force. But the disciplinary committee also vows to punish those responsible for the 22 day long strike.
Residents sighed in relief at the news. One rail passenger said, “I was planning on a traveling by train tomorrow. I am happy that the strike is over.”
There are bound to be repercussions, though, as extensive re-education and counseling sessions for rail workers are planned. Limited service seems inevitable, with only 75 percent of trains operating, as was the case today. It is expected to take weeks before full service resumes.
The KTX, Korea’s premiere rail service, second-tier coaches such as Mugunghwa, Saemaul, and freight services which have been affected by the strike are expected to resume full operations on January 14.
As workers of KORAIL began their first day of work in the new year on January 2, the company announced that disciplinary action would be taken against the striking rail workers on January 16, reinforcing the statement that it would push for labor restructuring.
KORAIL President Choe Yeon-hye made it clear in her statement, “Those responsible for the strike will be disciplined by strict means. Such action is necessary to restore public confidence in our rail system.” Then she called for a thorough restructuring plan, which would reduce the number of unprofitable freight services and sell shares of privately run sectors of KORAIL.
She also requested more utilization of KORAIL assets and active involvement in low-risk ventures, such as the real estate development of commercial rail stations.