Highways in South Korea experienced congestion on Friday as the extended holiday period commenced with Labour Day. The government had declared Labour Day a national holiday earlier this year, granting all workers a day off. This year, with Children’s Day falling on Tuesday, those taking Monday off could enjoy up to five consecutive days off.
More than six million vehicles were expected to travel nationwide on Friday, with journeys from Seoul to Busan projected to take up to 9 hours and 10 minutes. Trips to Gwangju and Gangneung were estimated to take 7 hours and 30 minutes and 6 hours and 20 minutes, respectively, during peak times. Traffic outbound from Seoul was anticipated to ease around 9 to 10 pm, with inbound traffic following suit from 10 to 11 pm.
Incheon International Airport saw an estimated 1.3 million people departing or arriving from the previous day through Tuesday, reflecting increased demand for international travel during the extended holiday. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, in his Labour Day address at Cheong Wa Dae, emphasized a steadfast commitment to workplace safety. He pledged to create a safe working environment where no worker would be at risk.
President Lee highlighted the importance of safeguarding workers, stating that it is a fundamental responsibility of both the nation and businesses. He rejected the idea that worker welfare and business growth are contradictory, emphasizing their interdependence. Addressing concerns about AI’s impact on jobs, he reassured the public that the government prioritizes people over productivity.
