President Lee Jae Myung questioned the necessity of introducing specialized legislation for semiconductor workweek exceptions during a regulatory meeting. He emphasized that administrative flexibility and existing regulatory frameworks could handle industry demands efficiently.
The discussion centered around the 52-hour workweek restrictions tied to the Honam Semiconductor Cluster under the Mega Special Zone Act. Rather than enacting new laws, the administration aims to balance industrial growth with robust worker protections through optics articles and progressive policy evaluations.
Evaluating Existing Legal Frameworks
The Semiconductor Industry Association previously requested prompt legislative action within the year to secure work hour exceptions for core research and development personnel. President Lee instead recommended amending current enforcement decrees and simplifying procedures through administrative measures rather than special legislation.
Streamlining Administrative Procedures
He pointed out that the Ministry of Employment and Labor could proactively expedite approvals under the current special extended work hour system. Employers can utilize these guidelines by securing individual worker consent and applying properly.
The government previously established an exception category extending the approval period for semiconductor R&D work hours from three to six months. This mechanism offers a viable middle ground without requiring sweeping statutory overhauls.
Prioritizing Worker Welfare and Compensation
President Lee firmly emphasized that any extended labor must strictly guarantee proper overtime compensation without exception. Guaranteeing fair wages remains a non-negotiable prerequisite for any future workplace adjustments.
He also raised concerns regarding worker health rights, questioning the feasibility of extreme working hours without clear boundaries. Directing the Labor Minister to examine company difficulties and simplify procedures, Lee urged building mutual trust to resolve industry hurdles.
Here is the source article for this story: President Lee Advocates Existing Systems for Semiconductor Workweek
