Samsung employees are continuing their strike for improved working conditions and higher pay, having staged a significant rally in South Korea on Monday. This demonstration marks the third week of their protest efforts.
Approximately 1,200 members of the National Samsung Electronics Union (NSEU) participated in the rally, marching on the Giheung campus located in Yongin, South Korea. This action follows initial wage discussions that took place between the union and Samsung on Friday.
The NSEU declared an indefinite strike on July 8 after an earlier walkout did not yield the desired improvements for its members. Although the union represents over 30,000 employees, the exact number of those who joined the indefinite strike remains unclear. However, this strike is being recognized as the largest in Samsung’s history.
Despite Samsung’s projection of a staggering 1,450% increase in second-quarter revenue due to an AI-driven boom, and a reported tenfold profit surge in the first quarter of 2024, workers claim they have not seen corresponding pay increases. Many of those on strike are involved in the production of advanced computer chips at Samsung’s foundries.
Experts note that Samsung has a challenging history with union relations and lacks substantial experience in negotiating with its workforce. A professor of Korean studies at the University of Oslo commented that if the Samsung workers are successful in their strike, it could significantly empower labor movements across South Korea.
The situation underscores a pivotal moment for employees at one of the world’s leading technology companies, highlighting the need for fair compensation and working conditions in light of the company’s record profits. As the strike progresses, there is potential for a shift in labor dynamics that may resonate throughout the industry.
Ultimately, the ongoing actions lead to a hopeful reflection on workers’ rights, as solidarity among employees could pave the way for more equitable labor practices in the future.