[Photo] GM Korea to close Gunsan factory in May

GM factory in Gunsan

The US-based automaker GM announced on Feb. 13 that it would suspend operations at its factory in the coastal city of Gunsan, North Jeolla Province, by May of this year. About 2,000 workers are expected to lose their jobs as a result of the decision, which is part of a global downsizing strategy implemented by CEO Mary Barra. GM reported that the factory was only operating at 20% of production capacity over the past year, but that it hopes to maintain its presence in South Korea, and will retain operations at its three other factories for the time being. The government of Moon Jae-in expressed “deep regret” over the decision.