ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to examine the linkage between globalization and labour rights focusing on the case of Korea. It provides an account that draws attention to the tradition of Korean industrial relations (IR) and challenges under the global financial and economic system. The chapter focuses especially on the experience of Korean IR after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) rescue package of November 1997. It describes the globalization of the Korean economy, followed by the general background of IR in Korea. The chapter discusses some IR issues under globalization trends. Throughout the period of rapid economic growth, the Korean government exercised a dominant role in determining employment and IR practices. Korean employers were more eager to adopt alternative employment principles during the economic crisis. Basic labour rights in Korea expanded as the economy grew. Downsizing has been common in almost all sectors of the Korean economy.
