“NewJeans Hanni Act” Introduced to Ensure “Everyone Deserves Respect in the Workplace”

Progressive Party Proposes Amendments to Labor Standards Act to Combat Workplace Harassment

On November 26, Representative Jeong Hye-kyung of the Progressive Party convened a press conference at the National Assembly Communication Building, where she unveiled a significant partial amendment to the Labor Standards Act. This legislative proposal aims to strengthen protections against workplace harassment. “Regardless of one’s income or contractual agreement, every individual deserves a harassment-free workplace,” Jeong emphasized.

This initiative follows troubling comments made by Hanni, a member of the K-pop group NewJeans, during her appearance at the National Assembly’s Environment and Labor Committee inspection, where she articulated serious concerns about workplace harassment. Notably, on November 20, the Ministry of Employment and Labor determined that under existing regulations, Hanni does not meet the legal definition of a “worker,” consequently leaving her vulnerable and without protective measures against harassment.

Representative Jeong highlighted, “Hanni is not alone; there are countless individuals in various sectors who lack legal protection from workplace harassment. The existing legislation only safeguards employer-employee relationships, neglecting many vulnerable workers.”

Jeong then provided poignant examples to illustrate the issue, stating, “Apartment security staff frequently endure derogatory remarks, such as being ordered to ‘bark like a dog.’ Tragically, some have succumbed to assaults or harassment, resulting in devastating suicides. Unfortunately, the current legal framework is ineffective for those in these atypical employment arrangements.”

The newly proposed amendment outlines specific provisions to enhance protections for labor providers and artists. Additionally, it mandates that employers must act decisively in cases of harassment conducted by third parties and introduces penalties targeting both the aggressors and the employers who neglect to implement proper measures against workplace harassment.

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