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Opposition proposes bill to redefine 'regular wages'
By Jun Ji-hye
Opposition lawmakers proposed Monday a revision bill to the Labor Standards Law, which will enable regular bonuses and extra payments to be included within regular wages.
“All monies paid for workers’ labor should be calculated as ordinary wages. The measure will also help reduce working hours and improve working conditions,” said Rep. Hong Young-pyo of the main opposition Democratic Party (DP), the leader of a group of 25 lawmakers who support the bill proposal.
Speaking at a press conference, Hong said there had been no conception of regular wages in the Labor Standards Law.
“Only decrees have been used to regulate the ordinary wage system. A number of related cases still remain in the courts and this only causes social confusion. That’s why we need a more explicit law,” he said.
He added that he expects the June Assembly that opened Monday to sincerely discuss the revisions in the proposed bill.
However, the ruling Saenuri Party expressed skepticism about passing the bill into law.
“It will pose a huge burden on companies. The matter should be resolved through a tripartite meeting with labor, management and government,” said ruling party floor leader, Choi Kyung-hwan.
Labor Minister Phang Ha-nam also suggested previously that the three parties hold talks to find a solution.