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During rallies yesterday in commemoration of the 110th May Day, major trade unions and labor organizations renewed threats to launch a general strike over their demands for wage hikes and improved working conditions.

The Federation of Korean Trade Unions (FKTU) reaffirmed its call for a five-day workweek, an average 13.3 percent wage hike and an end to unilateral corporate restructuring. The demands were made during a ceremony at the KBS '88 Gymnasium in Tungchon-dong, western Seoul.

"With the arrival of the first May Day of the 21st century, we resolve to fight for our right to enjoy an acceptable standard of living," said FKTU acting chief Lee Kwang-nam. "We will also defend our right to hold a general strike to obtain victory in our struggle for better wages and collective bargaining power."

Lee accused the government of pursuing economic policies that have not only widened the gap between rich and poor, but have also robbed laborers of their right to work.

A labor coalition calling itself the "People's Preparatory Committee or Coalitional Struggle" also held a rally at Seoul's Chongmyo Park in Chongno. The participants, including student activists and laid-off workers, called for reduced working hours and a shift in the government's economic policy in favor of laborers.

Members of the coalition wound up their protest with a 2-km march from the park to Myongdong Cathedral.

The National Livestock Trade Union also held a rally at the historic church in the evening, protesting the expected amalgamation next year of the National Agricultural Cooperatives Federation, the National Livestock Cooperatives Federation and the National Ginseng Cooperatives Federation.