Fatal Accident at Truckers' Union Rally, Labor Ministry: 'Unrelated to Yellow Envelope Act'

One union member died and two were injured in a vehicle ramming incident during a Cargo Truckers' Solidarity Union rally in Jinju, Gyeongnam Province.

Regarding this accident, the Ministry of Employment and Labor stated it is a separate issue from the discussion of the 'Yellow Envelope Act' (amendment to the Trade Union Act).

The accident occurred during the process of truck drivers demanding direct negotiation with the prime contractor (the highest-level employer) of their contracting companies, with the company claiming no obligation for direct negotiation due to a multi-tiered subcontracting structure.

The government has thus far taken a passive stance in mediating negotiations, viewing Cargo Truckers' Solidarity Union members as independent contractors.

The Ministry of Labor diagnosed the fundamental cause of the situation as a lack of a legal structure for workers in vulnerable positions, such as those in special employment, to unite and engage in dialogue.

This accident has highlighted the realities faced by workers in special employment who fall into blind spots within the logistics system, sparking discussions on the need to establish channels for negotiation.