Kang Yoo-jung, the chief spokesperson, made this remark during a briefing at the Chunchugwan when asked about the potential impact of the negotiations on the broader industrial sector. "The impact of this conflict on the national economy is significant," she said.
Kang acknowledged that while labor issues are primarily decided autonomously by the parties involved, the recent debate surrounding Samsung's management bonuses has escalated into a broader social issue. "This conflict has intensified, and all citizens have witnessed it," she explained.
Regarding the recent tentative agreement that averted a total strike, Kang noted, "Although the Central Labor Relations Commission's post-adjustment efforts were unsuccessful, there was considerable public concern. Therefore, both Samsung and the labor union made concessions to reach this tentative agreement. This outcome reflects the efforts of both parties, as well as the active cooperation from the government, including Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon."
Kang also addressed President Lee Jae-myung's comments on profit distribution made the previous day, stating, "The President clarified the difference between net income and operating profit, suggesting that this issue requires further social discussion and examination."
During a cabinet meeting and emergency economic assessment, President Lee criticized the Samsung labor union, saying, "Before taxes, which can be considered a shared national resource, they are seeking to institutionalize a share of operating profit. This is something investors do not even do. Investors receive dividends after taxes from net income, which I find somewhat difficult to understand."
In response to the Samsung minority shareholders' group threatening legal action over the legality of the tentative wage agreement, Kang remarked, "We need to examine the situation regarding the legal actions, including the injunctions, further."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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