Samsung Electronics and its union failed to reach a wage deal on May 13 despite government mediation, increasing the chance of an 18-day strike from May 21. The union demands performance bonuses equal to 15 percent of operating profit.
Samsung Electronics posted 43.6 trillion won in operating profit last year, with first-quarter earnings surging to 57.23 trillion won. The union seeks performance bonuses worth 15 percent of operating profit and removal of payout caps, while management offered 10 percent plus a one-time package.
Union leader Choi Seung-ho said after the talks that differences had not narrowed and that more than 50,000 workers may join the strike from May 21 to June 7. He stressed the action would remain lawful.
The government pledged active support for continued dialogue. Prime Minister Kim Min-seok instructed officials to prevent any strike, and Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon said talks must proceed even if it means staying up all night.
The Suwon District Court finished hearings on Samsung’s injunction request and will rule by May 20. Observers warn a full strike could cause economic losses exceeding 40 trillion won.
