Though Seoul Arts Center has a substitute holiday policy, the labor union claims that staff shortages have created an environment where it is extremely difficult to take substitute holidays. (Image: Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jan. 8 (Korea Bizwire) — A renowned arts center in Seoul is locked in a battle with workers as the labor union claims the institution has failed to guarantee substitute holidays for working weekends.
According to the labor union at Seoul Arts Center, the arts institution has failed to guarantee substitute days off on Sundays and Mondays as promised, despite workers having to work during the weekend.
Though Seoul Arts Center has a substitute holiday policy, the labor union claims that staff shortages have created an environment where it is extremely difficult to take substitute holidays.
The value of substitute holidays that went to waste over the last year is estimated to be between 100 and 150 million won, the labor union has said.
Against this backdrop, the union at Seoul Arts Center said on Monday that it has decided to consider taking legal action against the arts institution after receiving support from nearly 90 percent of its members.
Depending on the outcome of the negotiation process, which begins today, the union could take steps such as going on a strike or a slowdown, which would be the first labor action against Seoul Arts Center since 2009 when the union withdrew from the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions.
Last year, the union also filed a petition against Seoul Arts Center with the Ministry of Employment and Labor over payment delays.
“Substitute holidays in lieu of overtime work and holiday work are being wasted. Calls for staff increases, payment for holiday work, and guaranteed Mondays off have all been ignored,” one member of the union said.
“Picketing or protests around commuting hours will be pursued first as a strike is not the top priority. However, if our requests are not heard, it could lead to calls for the resignation of the chairman,” the union member added.
A renowned arts center in Seoul is locked in a battle with workers as the labor union claims the institution has failed to guarantee substitute holidays for working weekends. (Image: Seoul Arts Center)
One official at Seoul Arts Center said it was inappropriate to stipulate substitute holidays as the practice is at management’s discretion, but hoped that the institution would find common ground with the union.
The infighting at Seoul Arts Center appears set to continue as the union is poised to go on a strike in the worst case scenario, which could lead to the cancelation of a number of performances.
Hyunsu Yim (hyunsu@koreabizwire.com)
