Protests Held in France, South Korea Extends Labor Day Holiday

Labor Day on May 1, 2026, saw significant activity in France and South Korea, with protests in one and travel surges in the other. In France, demonstrators gathered to oppose a proposed bill that would permit artisanal bakers, pastry chefs, and florists to have employees work on the paid holiday.

158,000 people participated in demonstrations across France, according to the Interior Ministry, while the CGT labor union estimated over 300,000. The marches were largely peaceful, with a notable procession from Place de la République to Place de la Nation in Paris under sunny conditions.

The bill, presented to the council of ministers two days prior, includes provisions for voluntary work and double pay. Protesters expressed discontent with the exemption to the paid holiday tradition.

“I thought it was important to remind the government how much this day matters to workers." — Pascal, a 58-year-old bank employee (Le Monde, May 1, 2026). One participant highlighted broader national issues, stating the proposal seemed inadequate amid other problems.”

Korea experienced heavy highway congestion as Labor Day marked the start of an extended holiday period. The government had designated May 1 as a national holiday earlier in 2026, allowing workers the day off. Over 6 million vehicles traveled nationwide, per Korea Expressway Corp.

estimates. Travel times swelled, with a trip from Seoul to Busan taking up to 9 hours and 10 minutes. Journeys to Gwangju and Gangneung were estimated at 7 hours 30 minutes and 6 hours 20 minutes, respectively, during peak periods. m. m.