The Busan Subway Workers' Union, representing subcontracted workers at Busan Urban Railway Operating Service, is preparing for collective negotiations with the primary contractor, Busan Transportation Corporation. They have yet to hold any form of official negotiation or meeting with the primary contractor, but they plan to address significant issues such as the need for improved facilities and increased workforce in hazardous jobs, which are critical for the safety and well-being of workers. The implementation of the 'Yellow Envelope Law' on the 10th of this month requires primary contractors to negotiate with subcontracted workers over their working conditions, a longstanding issue that has plagued the labor market in South Korea.

The union emphasizes that Busan Transportation Corporation holds the real power in determining the working conditions of subcontracted workers, as all essential directives concerning cleaning and maintenance tasks, including labor standards and wage structures, are mandated by the corporation. If negotiations commence, it would mark the first time in 23 years that a union has been formed at the subcontractor level, highlighting the urgency and significance of the current labor movement.

Support from the primary contractor's union significantly boosts the efforts of the Busan Subway Workers' Union. Their calls for solidarity could enhance their negotiating power in discussions with the primary contractor. The union's leaders are urging the corporation to take meaningful action and participate directly in negotiations to ensure that the requirements of subcontracted workers are met, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in fighting for workers’ rights and improved conditions in the face of systemic labor market disparities.