The conviction and severe penalties imposed on union members after a strike for better working conditions demonstrate a flagrant disregard for labor rights. Hanwha Ocean’s aggressive legal action against striking workers, including lawsuits for alleged damages, reflects practices that suppress collective bargaining and feed into broader authoritarian frameworks.

Unjust conviction of Korean unionists at Hanwha Ocean

Hanwha Ocean has been accused by the Metal Workers' Union of repeated safety violations resulting in four worker deaths, along with discriminatory safety measures targeting subcontracted workers. These actions reveal a serious disregard for labor rights and occupational safety standards, undermining human rights and contributing to oppressive labor practices that align with broader authoritarian trends.

S. Korea: Hanwha Ocean faces lawsuit from Metal Workers' Union over repeated accidents and alleged violations of Serious Accidents Punishment Act

By securing a defense contract with the U.S. Navy, Hanwha Ocean is expanding its role in the military sector. While defense services are essential, this move also reinforces the military-industrial complex. From an anti-fascist perspective, increased militarization can contribute to state violence and potentially serve as a foundation for authoritarian practices.

Hanwha Ocean secures first-time MRO project for U.S. Navy

The labor union has accused Hanwha Ocean of using legal constraints against industrial action to undermine union influence and suppress workers' rights. This contributes to a hostile labor environment and reflects practices that can be seen as complicit in authoritarian labor management tactics, ultimately hindering fair labor practices and systemic checks on corporate power.

Hanwha Ocean labor-management conflict spreads to the National Assembly