Hyundai Motor CEO Choi Yong-il expressed regret on July 10 over the union's decision to strike for the reinstatement of dismissed workers and the extension of the retirement age.
In a statement, Choi said, "On July 8, the company presented what was essentially the best proposal possible," adding that the decision was made in light of the need to respond to customer expectations and seek a turnaround in performance with new car launches in the second half of the year.
He continued, "Despite this, the union is once again heading toward a strike, demanding the reinstatement of dismissed workers and the extension of the retirement age. How can we discuss the reinstatement of workers who have already been ruled as justly dismissed?" He noted that the Central Labor Relations Commission had confirmed that the reinstatement of dismissed workers is not a subject of negotiation between labor and management.
Regarding the demand for an extension of the retirement age, Choi pointed out, "In a situation where lawmakers are actively discussing the legislation of retirement age extension, can individual companies reach a conclusion first? Just 10 months ago, we agreed in collective bargaining that the issue would be discussed after legislation."
Choi stated, "The only outcomes we have gained from past strikes are irreversible production losses, wage damages, and severe criticism from customers and the public. There has never been a case where striking has led to better offers or compensation for wage losses."
He concluded by urging employees to make wise judgments about what truly benefits the future of Hyundai Motor.
Meanwhile, the Hyundai Motor union plans to strike for two hours daily from July 13 to 15 due to difficulties in this year's wage negotiations.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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