The non-regular workers’ union at the state-run Incheon International Airport went on an indefinite strike Saturday, calling for higher wages and job security.

Up to 700 of the 1,900 union members, who are largely cleaners and facility management workers, joined the action, they said.

“There was no reason to delay our protest, as we have not received an answer for our request from the company,” the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions’ Public Transportation Union said in a statement.

“The officials have been reiterating their stance that they have nothing to offer. This strike is a legal one, and we will not allow any kind of disruption.”

The public corporation has claimed it has no responsibility for the contract workers’ labor conditions or wages, saying that they have been hired under the airport’s subcontractors.

“The airport will operate as usual. We’ve secured 801 airport employees and non-union workers to replace (the irregular workers) during their strike,” the airport officials said in a statement.

By Suk Gee-hyun (monicasuk@heraldcorp.com)