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Union Members Rally at Samsung Electronics Pyeongtaek Campus Calling for Transparency and Wage Cap Removal (Photo: Yonhap News Agency) |
[Alpha Biz= Ellie Kim] The labor union at Samsung Electronics has issued a warning to members who did not participate in its April 23 rally, signaling a push to strengthen internal cohesion ahead of a planned general strike in May.
On the 27th, Choi Seung-ho, head of the Samsung Electronics branch of the Korean Metal Workers’ Union, released a statement titled “After the April 23 Rally,” outlining the results of the demonstration held in front of the company’s Pyeongtaek facility and the union’s future strategy.
Choi stated that “40,000 members took action to change flawed systems,” adding that while he regretted the absence of some members, the union would seek unity rather than blame. However, he also warned that those who side with management and hinder collective efforts during the upcoming strike “can no longer be regarded as colleagues,” underscoring a tougher stance.
The union claimed the rally reduced foundry output by 58% and memory production by 18%. It argued that participation by all members in a full-scale strike could significantly increase pressure, estimating potential losses of up to KRW 30 trillion if the strike continues for 18 days.
Choi emphasized that the union would not back down until management agrees to abolish bonus caps and implement transparent and institutionalized compensation systems.
The union is also stepping up pressure on management, with plans to hold a protest on May 21 near the residence of Chairman Lee Jae-yong in Hannam-dong, Seoul. It has called for Lee to personally engage in dialogue and issue an apology, raising questions over top-level accountability.
Alphabiz Ellie Kim 인턴기자(press@alphabiz.co.kr)
