A nationwide strike by South Korean state workers has spread, with tens of thousands of employees from the country's two top automakers also walking off the job.

Thousands of state rail and power industry workers have been on strike since Monday to protest long work weeks and a government privatization plan.

Speaking to his cabinet today (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 workers from South Korean automakers Hyundai and Kia staged a walkout to show solidarity with the rail and power employees, who are prohibited by South Korean law from striking. Arrest warrants have been 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 occur.

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

(afp, reuters, ap, bickers cr, prev)

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