Mar 8 • 03:22 UTC 🇰🇷 Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

The Korea Workers' Compensation Corporation Established a Principle of 'Refraining from Appeal' in Case of Losing Industrial Accident Lawsuits

The Korea Workers' Compensation Corporation decided not to appeal when losing lawsuits filed by workers or their families related to industrial injuries, in order to expedite support for victims.

The Korea Workers' Compensation Corporation has introduced a principle to refrain from appealing when it loses lawsuits regarding industrial accidents against workers or their families. Announced on the 8th, this decision comes after the organization faced criticism for prolonging the suffering of victims due to delays in receiving necessary medical and living expenses while appeals were pending. By prioritizing respect for lower court decisions in cases where the court acknowledges a significant causal relationship with workplace accidents, the organization aims to improve support for injured workers and alleviate their hardships.

Under the Industrial Accidents Compensation Insurance Act, injured workers and their families are entitled to benefits including medical costs and survivor's allowances, provided they obtain recognition from the Korea Workers' Compensation Corporation. For diseases to be recognized as an industrial accident, a significant causal relationship must be established, which can often lead to lengthy review processes, averaging seven months and sometimes stretching up to four years. The changes in appeal policy aim to mitigate the delays faced by victims seeking redress following initial court rulings, especially in light of recommendations from the National Assembly's inspection and directives from President Lee Jae-myung.

Moving forward, the Korea Workers' Compensation Corporation stated it will generally refrain from appealing court decisions that recognize workplace injuries. However, exceptions will be made in cases deemed to have significant impact or when further clarification of legal principles is necessary from the Supreme Court. This policy shift is already being implemented, as seen in recent cases, including those involving severe health issues faced by various laborers. The organization's director, Park Jong-gil, emphasized the commitment to respect court rulings in matters of industrial accidents, aiming to provide quicker relief to affected workers.

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