The South Korean government’s proposed revision to the Distribution Industry Development Act has sparked a heated debate between advocates for consumer convenience and those concerned about the well-being of large-scale supermarket workers.

The proposed changes would allow large supermarkets to operate on Sundays and public holidays while mandating closures on two weekdays each month, aiming to accommodate the needs of dual-income families and individuals living alone who face challenges with restricted shopping hours during the workweek.

However, critics argue that the government’s focus on consumer convenience fails to adequately address the potential negative impacts on supermarket workers and small businesses,