Lee Jae-myung pledged to raise retirement age during a Labor Day announcement that highlighted his worker-centered campaign. He emphasized that the current retirement age of 60 fails to match the national pension schedule. South Koreans currently wait until at least 62 to collect pensions, with the age rising to 65. This growing gap leaves many workers financially strained after retiring from their jobs. Lee aims to bridge that divide by adjusting retirement policies across sectors.
He spoke to supporters on May 1, aligning the message with Labor Day to emphasize solidarity with workers. Lee noted that economic conditions and demographic shifts demand a review of retirement standards. South Korea faces an aging population and a shrinking workforce. Raising the retirement age would help maintain labor supply and support public finances. Lee Jae-myung promised to make this reform a top legislative priority if elected president.
In addition, Lee unveiled several labor reforms aimed at improving job stability and career flexibility. He proposed policies to assist young workers seeking career shifts across industries. Lee also pledged to support more interaction between unions from different companies. These cross-company union meetings would help create a unified labor front. The goal is to raise retirement age while building a fairer work environment.
Moreover, Lee wants to protect irregular workers who often suffer from lower pay and fewer rights. He plans to expand job security laws and offer social safety nets to non-standard employees. These measures would reduce inequality between full-time and irregular workers. As the economy evolves, Lee says worker protections must keep pace. His broader mission includes raising retirement age and restoring dignity to all types of labor.
Meanwhile, Lee framed his platform as a response to South Korea’s long-standing labor issues. He said workers deserve more than token gestures and should see real changes in law and policy. He criticized previous administrations for ignoring the retirement gap problem. According to Lee, raising the retirement age ensures that older workers stay financially independent. He warned that failing to act could worsen poverty rates among the elderly.
Lee’s proposals quickly gained attention from both workers and political rivals. Many union leaders praised the plan, calling it a step toward fairer aging policies. However, critics said raising retirement age might reduce job openings for younger workers. Lee responded by promising youth employment programs alongside retirement reform. He argued that a balanced approach can address both concerns effectively.
Polls show that Lee Jae-myung remains a leading contender in the upcoming presidential election. His focus on labor rights and social justice continues to resonate with voters. He remains especially popular among working-class citizens and older generations. Observers say his plan to raise retirement age could shift policy debates across party lines. With this bold agenda, Lee hopes to reshape South Korea’s labor system for the better.
Lee’s campaign message positions him as a champion for long-term workers and vulnerable employees. His team plans to unveil more labor-focused policies in the coming weeks. The candidate believes retirement reform and social protections should go hand in hand. Lee Jae-myung’s promise to raise retirement age now stands as a central theme of his platform. As the election nears, this policy may determine the direction of South Korea’s workforce future.
