Samsung employees advocating for improved working conditions and increased pay organized a significant rally in South Korea on Monday, marking the third week of their ongoing strike. Approximately 1,200 members of the National Samsung Electronics Union (NSEU) marched through the Giheung campus in Yongin, reflecting the growing momentum of their movement, as reported by the Associated Press.
The demonstration followed initial negotiations between the union and Samsung regarding wage increases, which took place on Friday, according to Bloomberg. The NSEU had declared an indefinite strike on July 8 after prior efforts for better workplace conditions fell short.
While the union claims to represent over 30,000 workers, the exact number participating in the indefinite strike remains unclear. Nevertheless, this strike is recognized as the largest in Samsung’s history. Despite the company’s projection of a more than 1,450% increase in second-quarter revenue attributable to an AI boom, and a tenfold profit increase in the first quarter of 2024, NSEU argues that employees are not seeing corresponding wage increases.
Many of the striking workers are involved in the production of advanced computer chips at Samsung’s foundry, a critical component of the tech giant’s operations. Furthermore, expert opinions suggest that Samsung has historically shown hostility towards unions, complicating negotiations with its workforce.
Vladimir Tikhonov, a professor of Korean studies at the University of Oslo, highlighted the potential impact of a successful strike by Samsung workers, stating that it could significantly empower labor movements throughout South Korea.
This strike marks a pivotal moment for workers’ rights in South Korea’s labor landscape. The determination of these employees to fight for fair wages not only showcases their resilience but also sets a precedent for labor movements across the country. As the negotiations continue, there is hope that this could lead to meaningful change for all workers in the technology sector.