Samsung employees striking for improved working conditions and higher pay held a significant rally in South Korea on Monday, as their protest against the company enters its third week.
Approximately 1,200 members of the National Samsung Electronics Union (NSEU) gathered and marched through the Giheung campus in Yongin, according to reports. This demonstration followed initial wage negotiation discussions between the union and Samsung on Friday.
NSEU workers initiated an indefinite strike on July 8 after an earlier walkout did not produce the workplace improvements they seek. While the union represents over 30,000 employees, the exact number participating in the indefinite strike remains unclear, although it is noted as the largest strike in the company’s history.
Samsung anticipates a significant increase in second-quarter revenue, projecting a rise of more than 1,450% year-over-year, largely attributed to advancements in artificial intelligence. The company also reported a tenfold increase in profits during the first quarter of 2024. However, the NSEU contends that workers have not benefitted from these record earnings.
Many of those participating in the strike are employed at Samsung’s foundry, where some of the world’s most advanced computer chips are produced.
Experts note that Samsung has a reputation for being adversarial towards unions and lacks extensive experience in negotiating with its workforce. Professor Vladimir Tikhonov from the University of Oslo stated that if Samsung workers are successful in their efforts, it could bolster the labor movement across South Korea.