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Financial Workers Protest Against Extension Of Stock Trading Hours In Seoul

Lee Chang-wook, head of the securities branch of the Korea Financial Industry Public Service Workers' Union, and union members shout slogans during a protest against the extension of stock trading hours in front of the Korea Exchange in the Yeouido district of Seoul, South Korea, on May 8, 2026. The union calls for the withdrawal of a proposed 12-hour trading system, citing concerns over labor conditions and system stability. Although the Korea Exchange postponed the implementation of pre- and after-market trading until September, workers continue to protest, arguing that starting market operations as early as 7 a.m. imposes an excessive burden on staff. (Photo by Chris Jung/NurPhoto)

Photo ID	#13678588
Date Taken	8 May 2026
Location	N/A
Photographer	Chris Jung/NurPhoto
Category	Social Issue
Copyright	© 2026 NurPhoto - Chris Jung/NurPhoto

Medium Group of People Waist Up South Korea Seoul Korea Exchange KRX Stock Market Trading Hours Labor Union Protest Demonstration Financial Industry Securities Industry Labor Rights Working Conditions Lee Chang-wook Korea Financial Industry Public Service Workers' Union Economy Finance Stock Trading Morning Market Business Politics union members Yeouido May 8 2026 withdrawal 12-hour trading system labor conditions system instability pre-market trading after-market trading market operations 7 a.m. excessive burden staff Chris Jung NurPhoto