POHANG-GYEONGJU, North Gyeongsang Province — As global CEOs began arriving for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, their dedicated gateway, Pohang-Gyeongju Airport, became the scene of a labor dispute. English-language banners, some with messages typically associated with mourning, were displayed at the airport's entrance on October 29, coinciding with the start of an indefinite strike by nationwide airport workers.
The workers, representing various subsidiary roles including environmental cleaning, parking attendants, and electrical facility maintenance, are demanding improved working conditions and better treatment, particularly for subcontracted employees. The National Airports Workers' Alliance, which launched the walkout at midnight on October 29, is striking at multiple airports across the country, highlighting their demands during the high-profile APEC event.
Messages in English Target International Arrivals
Approximately a dozen black and white banners, reminiscent of funeral wreaths (' 근조 현수막'), were hung at the airport's entrance. The placards bore stark English messages such as "STOP Unfair Trading & Gapjil (Abuse of Power)" and "KEEP YOUR PROMISE FOR A BETTER AIRPORT." This strategic placement and use of English aimed to draw international attention to the workers' grievances as high-profile business leaders, including executives from companies like Nvidia, Johnson & Johnson, and Samsung, arrived via private jets. Pohang-Gyeongju Airport was designated as the primary dedicated entry point for participants of the APEC Global CEO Summit, scheduled from October 28 to 31 in nearby Gyeongju.
“There are many strike banners, and the English-language ‘funeral’ banners feel unfamiliar,” remarked one arriving passenger, noting the unusual sight at the airport.
Contingency Measures Limit Disruption
In response to the strike, the Pohang-Gyeongju Airport immediately deployed replacement personnel to manage essential services. Alternative workers were seen conducting environmental cleanups in restrooms and the airport lobby to mitigate inconveniences for passengers and the arriving APEC delegation.
Airport authorities, including the Korea Airports Corporation, downplayed the likelihood of significant operational disruption. Airports, classified as essential workplaces, are legally required to maintain a minimum level of staffing for critical functions. The deployment of non-union and substitute staff has ensured that the arrivals of global CEOs and economic leaders have proceeded without major difficulties or delays thus far.
The APEC summit, a major global event, has prompted heightened security across the region. The strike introduces a visible element of domestic labor tension into the otherwise meticulously prepared international diplomatic and business gathering.
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