Korean firm occupied by workers

TANGERANG: The Cikupa, Tangerang, offices of South Korean company PT Sam Roh Young were briefly occupied by three dismissed workers and dozens of their supporters.

The company's managing director, Chong Jaisung, said on Saturday the workers were fired two weeks ago for smoking inside the factory, a violation of company regulations.

Chong said that since their dismissal, the employees, accompanied by local residents, had held several rallies in front of the factory, which produces material for golf gloves.

He said the protesters had forcibly entered the company compound, demanding that the three dismissed employees be rehired, and also that their friends be given jobs.

When their demands were rejected, the protesters took over the company's offices on Thursday, he said, adding that police officers only watched the occupation.

Chong said that on Friday the company and the protesters reached an agreement on compensation for the dismissed workers.

He asked the central government and the local administration to address the problems faced by foreign companies in dealing with employees. --JP