Today, 2 May 2026, BWI joins the Korean Federation of Construction Industry Trade Union (KFCITU) and the entire Korean trade union movement in commemorating the life and martyrdom of Yang Hae-dong.

On 1 May 2023, amid International Workers’ Day celebrations around the world, Yang Hae-dong made the ultimate act of protest. He self-immolated in response to what he and his union saw as persecution by the South Korean government under President Yoon Suk Yeol, targeting KFCITU leaders and members fighting for the right to self-organisation and collective bargaining.

“We must win!” was Yang Hae-dong’s message to KFCTIU in his farewell note, which resonated in the celebration of his martyrdom.

Last year, President Yoon Suk Yeol was sentenced to life in prison for charges of insurrection. Following his failed December 2024 martial law attempt, his impeachment was upheld in April 2025, making him the first sitting president to be arrested and imprisoned. He was convicted of masterminding a rebellion by deploying troops to block the National Assembly.

The new government apologised for the wrongdoings of President Yoon’s direct attacks against KFCITU, who were labelled as “gangsters” that must be “eliminated” under his term.

This year, the South Korean parliament passed a bill that provides a mechanism for KFCITU to negotiate with general construction companies on occupational safety and health matters in workplaces. In honour of Yang Hae-domg’s martyrdom, the KFCITU will further the opportunity to negotiate CBA.

“The martyrdom of Yang Hae-dong has inspired hundreds of millions of construction and building workers around the world. His sacrifice will forever be remembered and celebrated. Comrade, we won, but we will continue the struggle that you started,” said BWI General Secretary Ambet Yuson, who led BWI’s delegation that joined the May Day rally and commemoration of Yang Hae-dong’s sacrifice.