The ruling and opposition parties are debating a law aimed at imposing harsher punishments on firms responsible for fatal industrial accidents. In June, the minor opposition Justice Party submitted a bill that would slap company officials with at least three years in jail or a fine of between 50 million won ($45,000) and 1 billion won if there is an industrial accident resulting in death due to business owners' violations of health and safety rules. The main opposition People Power Party (PPP) has also expressed support for the bill.
The ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), however, has changed its position and become more passive in its response to the bill. In the party's Supreme Council meeting Friday, the DPK discussed the matter but postponed a decision, although it did state, “The purpose of the bill must be respected and reflected by any means.” This means that the party sympathizes with the bill's purpose but will take its time in making a decision.
The DPK's indecisiveness is understandable, considering that the law, if enacted, will hamper corporate activities excessively at a time when the Occupational Safety and Health Act, which was amended this January, stipulates one of the world's most severe penalties. In the event of fatal accidents, business owners are subject to up to seven years in prison and/or a fine of up to 100 million won.
Industrial accident cases have declined in recent years. Still, more than 2,000 laborers die at industrial sites every year. This testifies to the urgency of enacting a relevant law to promote adherence to health and safety regulations.
The ruling party is reportedly wavering between enacting a new law and amending the Occupational Safety and Health Act. A few DPK lawmakers have submitted their own bills, which are broadly similar to the bill the Justice Party proposed in June. So the parties will have no problem negotiating a compromise if the ruling party makes a decision.