Hyundai And Kia Sued In California For Alleged Labor Of Children

Hyundai and Kia are being sued for exploitation of children. (Photo: Carscoops)

JAKARTA The lawsuit filed in the state of California highlighted allegations of use of child labor and forced labor in the supply chain of two major automotive manufacturers, Hyundai and Kia. However, the two South Korean manufacturers immediately gave their rebuttals.

The lawsuit was filed by the non-profit group Jobs to Move America. They assessed that the two brands violated California's Unhealthy Competition Act for allegedly utilizing suppliers who use child labor, migrant workers, and detainees.

Launching from Carscoops, Saturday, November 15, the lawsuit documents submitted to the California High Court, Hyundai and Kia are considered to have marketed themselves to public agencies as companies that uphold social responsibility.

However, according to the plaintiff, the practice in the field shows that their suppliers in the southern region of the United States still use a low-cost work pattern. Where, this is considered not in accordance with local labor regulations.

Jobs to Move America also alluded to reports on Hyundai suppliers in Alabama who had involved 12-year-old migrant children in the production process.

"No company is immune from the law, especially companies, such as Hyundai and Kia, which are benefiting from public money," said Jobs to Move America Litigation Director Stewart.

The case says it is enough against Hyundai and Kia's persistent rejection of taking responsibility for the despicable work practices in their southern supply chains. Californians and American workers deserve better," he continued.

Meanwhile, Hyundai firmly denied the allegations. In its statement, the company stated that it always prioritizes the safety and welfare of the workforce, and emphasized that all operations follow federal and state regulations.

Hyundai also said it had required all suppliers and business partners to adhere to strict safety, employment and legal standards. They are also ready to take action if violations are found.

"For nearly four decades, Hyundai has been a driver of American growth and innovation from its US headquarters in Fountain Valley, California, and we value our long-term relationship with the state," Hyundai said in a statement.

"Hyundai is a major economic contributor to the community where we operate and are committed to providing good job opportunities, with competitive wages and benefits," the company added.

The lawsuit does not aim to attract Hyundai and Kia products from the market, but rather asks the court to determine that the actions of the two companies violate California law. Plaintiffs are also demanding the implementation of permanent bans, independent audits, third-party monitoring, and continuous compliance verification.

This case adds to the pressure for the global automotive industry to tighten supervision of supply chains. Especially regarding social and labor issues, amid increasingly strict regulations in a number of states in the United States.