South Korean workers under the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) launched an indefinite general strike in response to President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of martial law on December 3. The KCTU, the largest federation of unions in the country, represents approximately 1.2 million workers.
The imposition of martial law is merely Yoon Suk-yeol’s tactic to suppress the people and maintain his position amid the escalating political crisis, according to the KCTU. Yoon’s justification for the imposition is “to eradicate pro-North Korean forces” and “maintain the constitutional order.” But the KCTU argues that this is just Yoon’s pretext to extend his power as he is already politically isolated. Yoon’s administration has for months been grappling with a crisis, facing 22 impeachment complaints, with 10 yet to be filed. His administration is detested for its anti-labor policies and subservience to US imperialism.
The workers will continue their strike until Yoon steps down from his position.
