A bill has been introduced that could extend workplace harassment protections to artists like NewJeans’ Hanni and platform-based gig workers.

On the afternoon of November 26, Representative Jeong Hye Kyung of the Progressive Party held a press conference at the National Assembly's communication hall to propose a partial amendment to the Labor Standards Act aimed at preventing workplace harassment. She emphasized, “Regardless of income, employment status, or contract type, no one should suffer harassment at work from superiors or others.”

This initiative follows an incident in which NewJeans’ Hanni appeared at the Environment and Labor Committee’s audit and inspection session to testify about workplace harassment. However, on October 20, the Ministry of Employment and Labor determined that Hanni, under the current law, is not considered an employee and, therefore, does not qualify for protection against workplace harassment.

Representative Jeong stated, “Not only Hanni of NewJeans but many others who work are still not protected by this law. This is because current legislation only prohibits workplace harassment within the employer-employee framework.”

She further elaborated on the necessity of the bill, sharing real-life examples, “Apartment security guards have been subjected to degrading abuse, such as being told to ‘bark like a dog.’ In one tragic case, a guard took their own life due to resident violence and harassment. Yet, under the current laws, the workplace harassment prohibition is ineffective in such special circumstances.”

The proposed amendment introduces special provisions for service providers and artists. It also establishes obligations for employers to take action when harassment by third parties occurs. Furthermore, it includes penalties for perpetrators and employers who fail to take appropriate measures in cases of workplace harassment or harassment by third parties.

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