[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] South Korea’s Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) has launched unannounced inspections of major delivery companies, including Coupang and CJ Logistics, to prevent unfair subcontracting practices that impose excessive workloads on delivery workers.



The KFTC announced on August 6 that it is conducting joint inspections with the Ministry of Employment and Labor and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport from August 6 to 14. The inspection targets five major courier companies: CJ Logistics (KRX: 000120), Coupang Logistics Service, Lotte Global Logistics, Hanjin (KRX: 002320), and Logen.



The key focus will be on identifying unfair subcontracting practices such as setting excessively high delivery targets and terminating contracts or shifting industrial accident-related costs to delivery subcontractors or workers if those targets are not met. Authorities will also investigate whether subcontracted delivery fees are withheld or unfairly reduced, and whether proper contract documentation was issued or amended as required.



In parallel, the Ministry of Employment and Labor and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport will examine labor conditions under the Occupational Safety and Health Act and the Living Logistics Services Industry Development Act. Particular emphasis will be placed on whether companies are complying with the "Five Basic Heat Safety Guidelines"—providing cool water, ventilation equipment, rest breaks, cooling gear, and emergency response measures.



The government also aims to improve working conditions by ensuring local cooling systems are installed and operating at logistics hubs and sorting centers, and by expanding rest facilities for delivery workers.
 

 

 

 

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