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Photo courtesy of Yonhap News |
[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] According to an exclusive report by The Hankyoreh, Coupang’s logistics subsidiary, Coupang Fulfillment Services (CFS), allegedly organized measures to systematically obstruct legally protected labor union activities. Evidence from internal company emails reveals detailed plans to counter union campaigns at Coupang logistics centers in Daegu, South Korea.
In February and April 2023, CFS staff reportedly coordinated responses to picketing by the Korean Public Service and Transport Workers’ Union (KPTU). One general affairs employee, identified as Mr. G, sent an email on February 9, 2023, to his regional manager, outlining strategies to block union access to company property. Proposed measures included erecting barricades across all access points and rerouting employees’ commuting paths to avoid union picketing zones.
The plan was reportedly implemented. A post-event report confirmed that key entry points were secured with fixed and movable barriers, and security personnel were deployed to prevent external union members from accessing employee parking lots and shuttle bus zones. A union representative noted that even members attempting to distribute informational materials to commuting employees were blocked by CFS staff.
Similar measures were reportedly taken during an April picketing, when union organizers attempting to enter the company premises were intercepted by CFS security staff. While five union members participated in the picketing, the company mobilized 48 personnel in response.
Legal experts note that there is limited legal justification for preventing union members from entering company premises for union activities. Article 5, Paragraph 2 of the Labor Union and Labor Relations Adjustment Act allows non-employee union members to engage in union activities on company premises if business operations are not disrupted. Courts have broadly recognized such access when union activities are legitimate.
Modifying employee commuting routes to hinder union interactions could constitute unlawful obstruction. “Preventing normal union operations has been recognized by courts as an unfair labor practice,” said Lee Seok, legal counsel for KPTU. He added that prior evidence of systematic anti-union behavior by Coupang strengthens the case for potential violations.
Historically, Coupang has maintained an anti-union stance. Between 2015 and 2016, the company reportedly considered splitting its courier business over concerns about union formation. In 2022, a so-called blacklist was allegedly compiled to prevent temporary workers from being hired based on union activity. CFS has also been accused of denying permanent contracts to employees at Bucheon and Goyang logistics centers due to union involvement.
A CFS spokesperson told The Hankyoreh that adjustments to commuting routes and shuttle operations were implemented solely for safety reasons, citing the presence of large vehicles near picketing areas. The company did not provide further explanation for blocking access to external union members.
Alphabiz Reporter Paul Lee(hoondork1977@alphabiz.co.kr)
