In an unprecedented move, a major union representing tens of thousands of workers at Samsung Electronics has announced plans to stage the company’s first-ever strike. The union, which accounts for approximately 20% of the South Korean tech giant’s workforce, declared on Wednesday that members will take annual leave to participate in a one-day strike on June 7.
The decision to strike marks a significant moment in South Korea’s labor history, especially within the technology sector where union activity has been relatively restrained. The union’s action is poised to raise concerns over potential disruptions to global semiconductor supply chains, as Samsung Electronics is a key player in the industry.
“This is a step we do not take lightly,” a union spokesperson said. “We hope that our collective action will bring attention to the issues faced by workers and open a dialogue with management.”
The union has not ruled out the possibility of a general strike in the future if their demands are not met, signaling potential ongoing challenges for Samsung Electronics. The company’s operations are critical not only to South Korea’s economy but also to global markets dependent on its semiconductor products.
Industry analysts are monitoring the situation closely, given the already strained semiconductor supply chain worldwide. Any significant disruption could have cascading effects on various sectors, including electronics, automotive, and consumer goods.
Samsung Electronics has yet to release an official statement regarding the planned strike. The company’s response and its engagement with the union will be pivotal in determining the next steps and mitigating potential impacts on production and supply.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
