Democratic Party of Korea Leader Discusses Labor Policies and Retirement Age Extension
Democratic Party of Korea leader Jung Chung-rae made several key statements on the 6th regarding the extension of the legal retirement age. He emphasized that a phased extension has already been significantly incorporated into President Lee Jae-myung’s government agenda. According to Jung, the party is committed to listening to opinions and working collaboratively to support this initiative.
The remarks were made during a policy meeting held at the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions in Jung-gu, Seoul. Jung highlighted the strong relationship between workers, labor unions, and the Lee Jae-myung government. He stated, “Workers and labor unions are the strongest supporters of the Lee Jae-myung government and eternal partners of the Democratic Party.” Additionally, he noted that creating a society where labor values are respected is a shared goal among the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, the Lee Jae-myung government, and the Democratic Party.
Jung pointed out that since taking office, President Lee has prioritized “workplaces free from industrial accidents” as a key national goal. This focus has been reflected in the next year’s budget proposal. He vowed that the party will provide full support for these initiatives.
One of the main legislative tasks, according to Jung, is expanding workers’ right to stop work. He described this as essential for protecting their lives and safety. Jung added that the party will accelerate efforts to prevent industrial accident casualties among workers.
In discussing national tasks in the labor sector, Jung mentioned the need to reduce blind spots in labor laws by guaranteeing rights for special-employment workers and revitalizing industry-wide collective bargaining. He emphasized that the party will carefully review specific details and strive to reflect them in policies.
Regarding legal revisions to allow teachers’ political participation, Jung expressed personal empathy with the idea. He reportedly proposed to the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, “Let’s meet often and communicate.”
Democratic Party spokesperson Kim Hyun-jung and deputy spokesperson Kwon Hyang-yeop shared further insights, stating that Jung suggested frequent meetings to rebuild trust between the party and the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions. They added that he encouraged deepening the relationship through regular interactions, even suggesting sharing a drink.
Korean Confederation of Trade Unions Chairman Yang Kyung-soo commented on the retirement age extension, noting that even if birth rates rebound, the economically active population will inevitably decline for the next 20 years. He stressed the importance of politics that addresses old-age poverty through retirement age extension and provides hope to youth by increasing quality jobs.