Park Hong-geun, Minister of the Ministry of Planning and Budget, stated on July 28 that the government will strengthen the job base and social safety net while maintaining fiscal sustainability.
During his visit to the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), Park met with Chairman Yang Kyung-soo. This meeting marked the first discussion between the Minister and the KCTU Chairman since the establishment of the Ministry, initiated at the request of the labor group. Previously, on July 20, Park visited the Korean Trade Union Confederation and met with Chairman Kim Dong-myung.
The meeting aimed to incorporate labor perspectives into the 2027 budget proposal and the long-term national development strategy. The KCTU emphasized the need to improve working conditions for employees and strengthen social safety measures.
Yang Kyung-soo remarked, "We must improve the treatment of non-regular workers in the public sector and caregivers, increase social insurance support for low-wage workers, and expand support for public hospitals." He also proposed the implementation of a main project for sick leave benefits and increased investment in industrial accident prevention.
In response, Minister Park affirmed, "The value of labor must be respected despite structural changes such as the transition to artificial intelligence and K-shaped growth polarization." He added, "The government is actively working to alleviate labor market disparities and employment instability, including measures announced in April to improve the treatment of non-regular workers in the public sector, while ensuring a solid job base and social safety net alongside fiscal sustainability."
The Ministry plans to focus on the labor and welfare sector's recommendations during the budget preparation process and the operation of the public service committee, which is set to begin in September.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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