Tens of thousands of South Korean workers went on strike against the government's labor policies yesterday in a protest that halted production at the nation's largest carmaker Hyundai Co.
The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions called on 150,000 member workers in auto, metals and other industries to strike. The Labor Ministry, however, estimated that only about 50,000 took part.
Hyundai union and management said 38,000 unionized workers joined the walkout. The automaker estimated production losses of US$21.3 million.
Some 5,000 workers marched through central Seoul to protest against lawsuits filed by companies against labor unions accused of staging earlier illegal strikes.
About 3,400 riot police were on standby. The five-hour demonstration ended peacefully in contrast to violent street clashes with police on the weekend.
Labor activists blame the government for the anti-union lawsuits as many of them were filed by state-run companies.
"Roh Moo-hyun government must stop oppression of labor forces," the trade union confederation said in a statement, referring to the South Korean president.
On Sunday labor activists, students and police clashed in one of the most violent demonstrations in years.
At that protest, demonstrators hurled fire bombs and wielded steel pipes, while police fought back with batons and shields. Activists accused police of excessive force and said more than 100 workers were hospitalized and another 100 detained.
Labor activists have staged frequent protests in recent weeks to condemn lawsuits that managers have filed against union leaders accused of staging illegal strikes.
Several labor leaders have committed or attempted suicide over the lawsuits. In some cases, courts have seized part of the salaries of labor activists.