The National Railway Workers' Union has announced plans for an indefinite strike next month, raising concerns about disruptions for rail passengers. If the strike proceeds, services for KTX high-speed trains, regular trains, and some metropolitan subway lines could be affected, prompting travelers to be cautious as they plan year-end trips or business travel.
On November 11, the union held a press conference at Seoul Station, stating that if the government and Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL) do not meet their demands, they will begin the indefinite strike at 9 a.m. on December 10.
The union is demanding improvements to the promotion system for frontline workers, an increase in railway safety personnel, and better working conditions. In a strike vote held from November 2 to 5, 77.58% of participants supported the strike.
Passengers are particularly concerned about train operations. Once the strike begins, even with essential and substitute personnel deployed, there is a possibility that the frequency of train services will be reduced compared to normal operations.
Both KTX and regular trains, including Mugunghwa and Saemaul services, may be impacted. Some sections of the metropolitan subway operated by KORAIL could also see increased intervals between trains, leading to congestion during rush hours. However, specific operational plans and the extent of service reductions have not yet been finalized.
Particularly concerning is that this will be the first large-scale railway strike since the merger of KORAIL and SR (SRT) in September, raising fears of greater disruptions than in the past.
Previously, when the KORAIL union went on strike, the separate operator SR maintained SRT services, partially mitigating transportation gaps. However, under the new integrated operational system, the scale of disruptions will depend on the extent of participation in the strike and the availability of substitute personnel.
Travelers should monitor the situation starting November 23, when the railway union plans to conduct safety operation protests and regional night meetings for two weeks leading up to the strike.
Passengers who have already purchased tickets should check the status of their trains if the strike materializes. In past railway strikes, KORAIL has provided updates on canceled trains through its website and the mobile app 'KORAIL Talk,' offering refunds without penalties for affected tickets.
Meanwhile, the railway union plans to hold a rally at Seoul Station on November 14 to escalate their protest efforts. KORAIL has stated it will prepare emergency transportation measures to minimize public inconvenience and will engage in additional negotiations with the union to prevent the strike.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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