UNI Apro statement on the democratic crisis in the Republic of Korea

The UNI Asia & Pacific Regional Organisation (UNI Apro), representing the services sector union members from across the Asia Pacific region, expresses profound concern over the unprecedented declaration of martial law by the Yoon Seok-yeol administration in the Republic of Korea at 22:30 KST on 3 December 2024. While the martial law was withdrawn at 04:30 KST on 4 December following decisive action by the National Assembly, the gravity of this assault on democratic institutions cannot be understated.

The declaration of martial law invoked nightmarish memories of Korea’s authoritarian past, particularly the tragic events of the 1980s, when citizens fought and sacrificed for the democracy that Korea proudly exemplifies today. The spectre and cutting sounds of military helicopters flying in the night sky over Seoul stirred deeply troubling echoes of that dark period.

Dramatic scenes unfolded as lawmakers made their urgent way to the National Assembly, with parliamentary staff and aides forming human barriers against police and military personnel attempting to prevent the assembly from convening. An estimated 30,000 people rushed to the gates of the National Assembly in these early hours to defend Korea’s democracy, while worrisome images emerged of armed soldiers attempting to breach the National Assembly Building.

This declaration, which lacked any legitimate constitutional basis, sent immediate shockwaves throughout Asia and the global community. The crisis has triggered significant economic uncertainty and market instability, both domestically and internationally.

The robust democracy of the Republic of Korea has stood as an inspiration for nations worldwide at a time when the Asia-Pacific region faces numerous challenges to democratic governance. This unprecedented action in one of Asia’s most robust democracies raises serious concerns about regional stability and democratic institutions.

Our affiliated unions in Korea have consistently called upon the Yoon administration to abandon its anti-union policies and cease its pattern of disregarding democratic processes, including the rejection of bills passed by the National Assembly. The declaration of martial law stands as clear evidence of presidential authority being wielded to override democratic decisions and silence the voices of workers and ordinary citizens.

The unions in the UNI Korea Liaison Council (UNI KLC), the collective platform of all UNI Global Union affiliates in Korea led by President Lee Jae-Jin, responded swiftly and decisively to the attempted imposition of martial law. The unions condemned this unconstitutional action as a grave threat to democratic institutions and workers’ rights, collectively calling for immediate measures to restore constitutional order and protect democratic freedoms.

At the 6th UNI Apro Regional Conference held in Bangkok, Thailand on 20-22 November, delegates adopted a statement in support of Korean affiliates in their struggle to protect fundamental rights and improve working conditions. This demonstration of regional solidarity has become even more significant in light of recent events.

Rajendra Acharya, Regional Secretary of UNI Apro, stated: “The declaration of martial law was a direct assault on workers’ rights and freedoms. The decree explicitly prohibited all strikes and gatherings, effectively criminalising legitimate union activities overnight. The swift response of the Korean labour movement, alongside civil society, in defending democratic institutions demonstrates the vital role of organised labour in safeguarding democracy. UNI Apro and our affiliates across the region stand ready to mobilise in solidarity with our Korean colleagues.”

This hard-won democracy, achieved through tremendous sacrifice, must not be undermined by irresponsible political gamesmanship. We stand firmly with our Korean affiliates in their demand for the restoration of genuine democratic governance, including guaranteed freedom of association and expression.

We urge the Korean government to step back from this authoritarian path and work swiftly to normalise society through peaceful and democratic means. The window for preserving Korea’s democratic institutions remains open, but immediate action is essential.

4 December 2024

UNI Asia & Pacific Regional Organisation