Despite repeated calls from Samsung Electronics management and the government to resume dialogue, the union has refused to negotiate and plans to proceed with a general strike as previously announced.
On May 15, the largest union at Samsung Electronics, the Korean Metal Workers' Union Samsung Electronics branch, stated in response to a letter from the company urging a resumption of talks, "We are willing to negotiate after June 7," emphasizing their commitment to exercising their constitutionally guaranteed rights and indicating their intent to continue the strike.
June 7 is the date the union has set for the end of the strike, suggesting that they are preparing to carry out their planned actions. With the union rejecting the call for dialogue, the anticipated general strike set to begin on May 21 for 18 days is expected to become a reality.
On the same day, Samsung management sent a letter titled "Response to the Korean Metal Workers' Union Samsung Electronics Branch 26-11" stating, "In the mediation by the Central Labor Relations Commission in March, the company proposed a transparent plan for the existing performance bonus (OPI) system, allowing for a choice between 10% of operating profit and 20% EVA." They also mentioned that regarding the demands for institutionalization and the removal of caps, they proposed maintaining the existing OPI system while establishing a new special compensation system without caps for more flexible institutionalization.
The company reiterated its commitment to meet without conditions to facilitate negotiations, stating, "To respond to the wishes of employees, shareholders, and the public for a resolution, we once again propose to meet and discuss openly."
In response, the Korean Metal Workers' Union stated, "We do not consider the letter sent to us as a genuine communication," adding, "Negotiations can happen at any time, and we can do it in June."
Previously, on May 14, the union emphasized its key demands for "transparency in performance bonuses, removal of caps, and institutionalization," and conveyed to management that they would engage in talks only if a clear willingness to negotiate was demonstrated. They requested a direct response from the CEO by 10 a.m. that day.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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