북한 경제특구와 노동규율(1) — 라선경제무역지대의 ‘노동력 배분제도’를 중심으로 —

This study focuses on the allocation of labor force and the income distribution system in the “Rason Economic and Trade Zone Labor Regulations” among the laws related to foreign investment in North Korea. The allocation of labor and the distribution of income are the pillars of the North Korean planned economic system. Therefore, a labor law review of changes can be a key element in diagnosing changes in the social structure in North Korea. On the other hand, the Rason Economic and Trade Zone is regarded as one of the most pioneering and experimental areas among North Korea’s special economic zones. Changes in this zone may serve as a measure to view changes within the North Korean regime and social structure. In this study, we first examine the ‘labor allocation system’ as a principle of labor regulation and compare it with the changes in the labor regulations for economic development zones. In particular, considering the specificity of the Rason Economic and Trade Zone, the study carefully analyzes the legal system related to the labor regulation of this zone, and examines relevant North Korean literature to draw out the North Korean perceptions on related issues. Such analysis is based on the overall North Korean legal system. By reviewing the legal principles under the socialist planned economy as well as the North Korean economic development zone legislation, this study provides a deeper look at the recent changes in the North Korean laws. In addition, the diagnosis of North Korea’s perceptions of the changes and their outlook can serve as a basis for responding to North Korea’s future economic opening.