Busan Port recently faced two major workforce-related challenges. First, Jaseongdae Pier—the first dedicated container terminal in Busan—was on the verge of closure due to lease expiration and the North Port Redevelopment Project, putting 598 port workers at risk of losing their jobs. Secondly, the relocation of DPCT, the operator of Singamman Terminal in North Port, to Korea’s first fully automated terminal in New Port raised serious concerns about large-scale workforce reduction.
To mitigate the employment risks associated with DPCT’s automation transition, BPA established a tripartite consultative body to mediate labor-management conflicts. In collaboration with the government, BPA invested a total of USD 1.28 million to provide smart port–specific training for 560 employees, covering remote equipment operation, smart system management, IoT, and AI technologies. Thanks to this proactive approach, BPA successfully alleviated job insecurity and redeployed personnel without layoffs during the automation process.
Meanwhile, with Singamman Terminal left idle following DPCT’s move, BPA designated the site as a replacement terminal for Jaseongdae Pier. In selecting a new operator, BPA prioritized employment succession in the evaluation criteria, ultimately awarding the lease to Hutchison, the previous operator of Jaseongdae. By leading tripartite negotiations, resolving compensation-related issues, and supporting operational stability to prevent vessel and cargo loss during the transition, BPA achieved the full succession of all 598 workers.
These two coordinated responses led to one remarkable outcome: 100% retention of existing port workers. Not only were directly employed workers protected, but the broader ecosystem including, stevedoring, tallying, and lashing services, was also stabilized. The effort restored labor trust, improved productivity, and contributed to the successful early adoption of smart port operations in Busan.