Kakao and its labor union have resumed wage negotiations ahead of a planned strike on June 29, raising hopes for a resolution before the deadline.
According to the IT industry on June 17, negotiations between Kakao and the Kakao branch of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions have restarted. Meanwhile, four other subsidiaries participating in the strike are coordinating their negotiation schedules. The Kakao union currently represents five entities, including Kakao Pay, Kakao Entertainment, DK Tech, and XL Games, all of which have secured the right to strike.
Kakao experienced its first-ever strike on June 10, and the union has announced plans for an additional strike on June 29. The resumption of negotiations has led to speculation about a possible agreement before the upcoming strike.
The Kakao union is demanding measures to alleviate job insecurity stemming from subsidiary sales, spin-offs, and restructuring, as well as the establishment of a joint negotiation system. They are also requesting a performance bonus of approximately 10 million won, which represents about 13-14% of the company’s operating profit, along with an additional 5 million won in restricted stock units (RSUs). However, Kakao has indicated that accommodating all of the union's demands may be challenging given the current business environment.
A Kakao representative stated, "Since the strike, both sides have been in continuous dialogue, and negotiations are currently being conducted in good faith."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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