Samsung Electronics and its largest union failed to reach an agreement in government-mediated talks on May 18, heightening concerns over a planned strike.
On May 18, Samsung Electronics and its largest union failed to bridge differences over performance-based bonuses during a second round of mediation talks in Sejong. The union demands 15 percent of the semiconductor division's operating profit as fixed bonuses, while management seeks to retain the existing system.
The Suwon District Court partially granted the company's injunction request the same day, ordering the union to maintain normal staffing for safety facilities and banning facility occupations. The union said it respects the ruling but will proceed with the planned strike.
President Lee Jae Myung posted on social media that labor rights and management rights must both be respected, warning that excessive demands could harm the public good. Industry observers estimate potential direct and indirect losses from a strike could reach up to 100 trillion won.
