Seoul: A group of civilian military employees said Friday it will file a complaint with the International Labor Organization (ILO) against the South Korean government for labor rights violations. The National Civilian Military Employee Solidarity plans to file the complaint to the ILO's Committee on Freedom of Association, accusing the government of restricting their right to unionize despite their civilian status.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the group stated during a press conference in Seoul that civilian military employees are considered special civil servants and are undeniably laborers, not soldiers. However, they expressed concerns over being subjected to military laws and regulations, which they argue are excessive, such as mandatory fitness tests. The group claims that the government has excluded them from the law governing labor unions of public servants, further complicating their situation.

In response to these allegations, the defense ministry clarified that civilian workers are restricted from engaging in union activities as they are considered members of the armed forces under the Framework Act on Military Status and Service. The ministry also emphasized that there are no plans to assign combat missions to civilian employees, addressing concerns over their potential involvement in military operations.