The Hyundai union organized the first general strike in the last decade, demanding an increase in the retirement age and protection of jobs.

The South Korean Hyundai Motor union organized its first general strike in a decade on Friday, after wage negotiations stalled. Workers are demanding an increase in the retirement age from 60 to 62 years and the protection of jobs in the face of automation and artificial intelligence.

Approximately 40,000 union members are expected to participate in the protest, which also includes members of other unions. The retirement age was extended in 2017, but many employees face a gap between retirement and receiving benefits, which forces them to accept poorly paid jobs.

The strike comes amid a surge in worker protests in South Korea, especially after the election of pro-labor President Lee Jae Myung. The union is also demanding an increase in bonuses to 800% of the monthly base salary. Hyundai stated that it is open to dialogue, acknowledging the impact of strikes on operations and customers.