Samsung employees striking for improved working conditions and higher wages held a large rally in South Korea on Monday, marking the third week of their protest against the company.
Approximately 1,200 workers from the National Samsung Electronics Union (NSEU) participated in the rally, marching along the Giheung campus in Yongin, as reported. This demonstration followed initial wage negotiation discussions between the union and Samsung that took place on Friday.
The NSEU workers declared an indefinite strike beginning July 8 after an earlier walkout did not achieve the workplace improvements the members are seeking. While the union represents more than 30,000 employees, the exact number of workers currently on indefinite strike remains unclear. This ongoing strike is noted as the largest in the history of the technology giant.
Despite Samsung’s projection of a significant increase in second-quarter revenue driven by a surge in AI technology and a tenfold increase in profits during the first three months of 2024, the NSEU asserts that workers are not experiencing corresponding pay raises amidst these record earnings.
Many of those participating in the strike are employed in Samsung’s foundry, where some of the world’s most advanced computer chips are manufactured. Additionally, analysts indicate that Samsung is generally resistant to unions and has limited experience in negotiating with its workforce.
Experts suggest that if Samsung employees succeed in their current efforts, it could significantly strengthen labor movements throughout South Korea.