5 Years Since Changwon Adopted Semi-Public Bus System... Can the Vicious Cycle of Deficits and Strikes Be Broken?

Five years after adopting the semi-public bus system, the city of Changwon is seeking a clue to end the vicious cycle of massive deficits and strikes. Implemented in September 2021, the system has failed to reduce the increasing financial burden each year, while continued labor disputes have led to bus suspensions every two years, causing persistent inconvenience to citizens.

Bus operation subsidies, which rose to the 90 billion won range last year, are projected to exceed 100 billion won this year due to the aftermath of the 'standard wage' ruling.

Ahead of the contract renewal at the end of next month, the city has set curbing financial support as a core objective. The city is preparing to use improvements to the pay scale and wage increases for lower-seniority drivers as negotiation cards. Kim Tae-hyo, chairman of the Changwon City Bus Union, stated that there is a will to resolve issues through dialogue this year. The city plans to unveil the renewal proposal in early next month.