Jeon Tae-il Quotes
Jeon Tae-il
Jeon Tae-il (1948-1970) was a South Korean labor activist and martyr who is remembered for his self-immolation in protest of the poor working conditions in the country’s garment industry. His death sparked a nationwide labor movement and led to the passage of the Labor Standards Act in South K…Read More
Jeon Tae-il (1948-1970) was a South Korean labor activist and martyr who is remembered for his self-immolation in protest of the poor working conditions in the country’s garment industry. His death sparked a nationwide labor movement and led to the passage of the Labor Standards Act in South Korea. Jeon is remembered for his activism and his famous quote, “I will die so that others may live.” He is also remembered for his works, including the book “The Autobiography of Jeon Tae-il” and the song “The Song of Jeon Tae-il”.Read Less
Jeon Tae-il (1948-1970) was a South Korean labor activist and martyr who is remembered for his self-immolation in protest of the poor working conditions in the country’s garment industry. His death sparked a nationwide labor movement and led to the passage of the Labor Standards Act in South Korea. Jeon is remembered for his activism and his famous quote, “I will die so that others may live.” He is also remembered for his works, including the book “The Autobiography of Jeon Tae-il” and the song “The Song of Jeon Tae-il”.
Jeon Tae-il Career Highlights
Jeon Tae-il was born on January 28, 1948, in Daegu, South Korea. He dropped out of school at the age of 16 to support his family and worked in various low-paying jobs. He experienced firsthand the harsh realities of the working class, including long hours, low wages, and unsafe working conditions. This fueled his passion for labor activism, and he began organizing protests and advocating for workers’ rights.In 1970, Jeon Tae-il joined the Korean Textile Workers’ Union and became a full-time labor activist. He quickly gained recognition for his fearless and passionate advocacy for workers’ rights. He organized numerous strikes and protests, demanding better wages, shorter working hours, and improved safety measures for workers.
Key Contributions by Jeon Tae-il
Jeon Tae-il’s most significant contribution was his self-immolation on November 13, 1970, in front of the E-Land garment factory in Seoul. He doused himself in gasoline and set himself on fire to protest against the exploitation of workers in the factory. His death sparked a nationwide movement for labor rights, with thousands of workers taking to the streets to demand better working conditions.His sacrifice brought attention to the poor working conditions in South Korea and forced the government to take action. The government passed the Labor Standards Act in 1971, which established a minimum wage, maximum working hours, and safety regulations for workers. This was a significant victory for the labor movement in South Korea, and Jeon Tae-il became a symbol of the fight for workers’ rights.
What Sets Jeon Tae-il Apart
Jeon Tae-il’s unwavering dedication and sacrifice for the cause of workers’ rights set him apart from other labor activists. He was willing to put his life on the line to bring attention to the injustices faced by workers in South Korea. His selflessness and bravery inspired a generation of activists and brought about significant changes in the labor laws of the country.
Takeaways
Jeon Tae-il’s story serves as a reminder of the power of one individual to bring about change. His selfless act of sacrifice sparked a nationwide movement and led to significant improvements in the working conditions of South Korean workers. His legacy continues to inspire labor activists around the world to fight for the rights of workers and demand fair treatment and better working conditions. Jeon Tae-il’s story also highlights the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity, and the impact that one person can have on society.
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