Jinju: Unionized cargo workers announced Wednesday they have reached a tentative agreement with BGF Logis, following the death of a union member during a demonstration near a logistics center of the company.

According to Yonhap News Agency, a 2.5-ton truck struck participants of a cargo worker rally last Monday near a CU convenience store logistics center in Jinju, resulting in the death of a union member in his 50s and injuring two others. The rally was organized to demand direct negotiations between BGF and unionized cargo truck drivers not directly employed by the company. This action was spurred by the recent enactment of the yellow envelope act, which holds prime contractors more accountable for subcontracted workers and restricts businesses from claiming damages from striking workers.

The Korean Public Service and Transport Workers' Union stated that the deal was reached in a meeting with BGF Logis representatives early Wednesday, with a signing ceremony planned for 11 a.m. The union also mentioned that blockades at major logistics centers, which commenced earlier this month, will be lifted immediately following the formal signing of the agreement.

Unionized workers have demanded improved working conditions, more days off, higher freight rates, and a ban on damage claims against union members. The fatal accident last week occurred as rally participants attempted to prevent a truck, operated by a non-union worker, from leaving the site and continuing work despite the ongoing rally. The union has accused police of allowing trucks to leave the area recklessly during the protest.

Police have charged the truck driver with murder, initially arresting him for causing special bodily injury but later changing the charges after determining intent. Additionally, two other union members have been sent to prosecutors for injuring a police officer and threatening others during the rally.