Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung on Thursday called on the leaders of two major umbrella labor unions to engage in constructive dialogue with the government and business sectors. This appeal was made during a closed-door luncheon meeting at the presidential office, where Lee discussed a variety of pressing labor issues with Yang Kyung-soo, president of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), and Kim Dong-myung, chairperson of the Federation of Korean Trade Unions.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee acknowledged the significant decision by the KCTU to join the National Assembly-led social dialogue, marking the union's first participation in labor-management-government talks in 26 years. He encouraged the unions to return to the Economic, Social and Labor Council, a platform for policy recommendations on labor affairs, emphasizing the necessity of dialogue even if it leads to disagreements.

During the meeting, President Lee asserted his neutrality in the ongoing talks between labor and business sectors. He addressed perceptions of him being either pro-labor or pro-business, particularly in light of his recent comments on workplace safety and wage delays. Lee emphasized these issues as matters of life and livelihood rather than aligning with a specific stance.

Furthermore, Lee addressed concerns regarding the "yellow envelope law," which expands bargaining rights for subcontract workers and limits companies from seeking damages from striking employees. Despite apprehensions about potential disadvantages to management, the law was approved by the Cabinet on Tuesday and is set to take effect six months after its promulgation.