Statement Against Martial law in South Korea | International Labour Network

On 3 December, the South Korean President declared martial law. This was the first time martial law had been declared in 44 years. Despite pressure from the armed forces (helicopters and armoured vehicles near parliament, attempted intrusion by special forces), the members of the Korean parliament immediately voted to lift martial law. But this declaration of martial law illustrates the undemocratic nature of the regime.

Proclamation No. 1 was issued, banning all political activities, protests and demonstrations. It also stipulates that the military will control the media and publications, and that strikes, work stoppages and meetings are prohibited. The South Korean trade union movement fought long and hard for democracy after the popular uprising in 1987, after almost three decades of military dictatorship.

We express our deepest solidarity with the South Korean trade unions in their struggle to defend democracy and trade union rights in the face of an extreme right-wing anti-union government.

We also express our support for the KPTU’s decision to lead a series of strikes in the railways, metros and schools from 5 to 7 December to win real pay rises and safe working conditions for better public services, despite the government’s continuing threats and attacks on the trade union movement.

The radical action of youth and workers in demonstrations and strikes is the way to guarantee rights and prevent the coup d’état. The International Labour Network of Solidarity and Struggle stands in solidarity with the general strike called by the KCTU.

December 3, 2024

International Labour Network of Solidarity and Struggle