Tens of thousands of employees from South Korea's top two auto makers have joined a nationwide strike by state rail and power industry workers. The strike began Monday to press union demands that the government shorten the work week and scrap a privatization plan.

Workers from auto makers Hyundai and Kia joined the walkout to show solidarity with the rail and power employees, who are prohibited by South Korean law from striking.

Speaking to his cabinet Tuesday President Kim Dae-Jung warned of tough action against the strikers, but said he hopes to resolve the labor unrest through dialogue. His comments came as arrest warrants were issued for 36 union leaders.

Striking workers are demanding a five-day work week and are asking the government to cancel a plan to sell three government-run corporations. Employees say they fear massive layoffs if the sales go through.

There were no reports of disruptions in gas or electrical services, but the stoppage caused delays in train service throughout the country.

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