President Lee Jae-myung met with Kim Dong-myung, chairman of the Federation of Korean Trade Unions (FKTU), and Yang Kyung-soo, chairman of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), to discuss the "three mega projects," including extending the retirement age, labor changes driven by the transition to artificial intelligence (AI), and resolving polarization.

President Lee shared this through his social media today (the 3rd), promising to "sufficiently listen to the voices of the labor community and resolve the difficulties and concerns in the field one by one."

He added, "In particular, I consider it very meaningful that discussions have begun for the KCTU to rejoin social dialogue," and expressed hope that "social dialogue involving both major labor unions will actively continue."

Kang Yu-jung, Senior Presidential Spokesperson, stated, "During today's tea meeting with the heads of the two major labor unions, President Lee emphasized the national significance of the three mega projects, mentioning that their successful promotion is essential for future generations and strengthening national competitiveness."

The spokesperson conveyed that the heads of the two major labor unions suggested that "close communication as well as active participation from the labor community are necessary for the successful implementation of the three mega projects."

Chairman Kim and Chairman Yang also expressed the opinion that labor-related issues concerning the mega-special zone bill currently under discussion in the National Assembly need to be resolved through social dialogue involving both labor and management.

Senior Spokesperson Kang explained that President Lee and the union heads agreed that, regarding the retirement age extension bills discussed over the past year in the National Assembly's Special Committee on Retirement Age Extension, it is necessary to produce results within the year through deliberation within the National Assembly that reflects diverse interests.

(Photo: Yonhap News)