Samsung employees are continuing their fight for better wages and working conditions as they embarked on a significant rally in South Korea on Monday. This marks the third week of their ongoing strike, which has gathered substantial attention.
Approximately 1,200 members of the National Samsung Electronics Union (NSEU) took part in the rally at Samsung’s Giheung campus located in Yongin. This event occurred shortly after initial wage negotiations were held between the union and Samsung last Friday.
The strike, which began on July 8 following an unsuccessful previous walkout, has become a historic event in the company’s labor relations, marking the largest strike in Samsung’s history. Although the NSEU represents over 30,000 employees, it’s still unclear how many are actively participating in the indefinite strike.
Samsung has reported record-breaking financial performance, with expectations for its second-quarter revenue to rise more than 1,450% year-over-year, largely driven by advancements in artificial intelligence. However, the NSEU argues that workers are not sharing in the company’s success, as they have not seen corresponding increases in pay despite the company’s significant profits.
Many of these striking workers are employed in Samsung’s foundry, where they produce some of the world’s most advanced computer chips. However, the company has a reputation for being resistant to union activities and has limited experience in negotiating with its workforce.
Experts suggest that a successful outcome for Samsung’s workers could have broader implications for labor movements across South Korea. “If Samsung workers succeed in this undertaking, it will empower the rest of South Korea’s labor,” stated Vladimir Tikhonov, a professor of Korean studies at the University of Oslo.
This situation highlights not only the importance of fair labor practices but also the potential influence such actions can have on improving conditions for workers in all sectors. As the strike continues, the outcome may serve as a catalyst for change in labor relations within the technology industry and beyond, fostering a culture of greater equity and respect for worker rights.
In summary, the ongoing strike at Samsung showcases the vital role of workers advocating for fair treatment amid a climate of increasing profitability for the company. The outcome could set a precedent that improves workplace conditions not just for Samsung employees, but also for labor movements across South Korea.