Samsung employees striking for improved working conditions and higher wages organized a large rally in South Korea on Monday, marking the third week of their protest.
Approximately 1,200 members of the National Samsung Electronics Union (NSEU) marched through the Giheung campus in Yongin, South Korea, following initial wage negotiation discussions with the company last Friday.
NSEU workers initiated an indefinite strike on July 8 after previous attempts to secure better workplace conditions were unsuccessful.
While the union represents over 30,000 employees, the exact number participating in the indefinite strike remains unclear. Nevertheless, this strike is recognized as the largest in the technology company’s history.
Samsung anticipates a significant increase in second-quarter revenue, projecting a rise of over 1,450% year-on-year, largely attributed to the AI sector. Additionally, the company reported a tenfold increase in profits for the first quarter of 2024. However, NSEU members have noted that they have not received corresponding pay increases despite these record returns.
Many striking workers are employed at Samsung’s foundry, responsible for the production of some of the most advanced computer chips globally.
Experts highlight that Samsung has a reputation for being hostile toward unions and lacks experience in negotiating with its employees.
“If Samsung workers succeed in this endeavor, it will empower labor movements throughout South Korea,” stated Vladimir Tikhonov, a professor of Korean studies at the University of Oslo.