On May 14, the commission stated, "We have requested that the labor and management of Samsung Electronics resume mediation talks on May 16, encouraging both sides to engage in sincere dialogue and substantial negotiations to resolve their differences autonomously."
Previously, labor and management engaged in mediation procedures facilitated by the commission on May 11 and 12. The commission continued the mediation process until 2:50 a.m. on May 13, but the union declared the talks had failed, effectively halting dialogue between the two sides.
Choi Seung-ho, chairman of the Samsung Electronics branch of the Korean Metal Workers' Union, stated on May 12, "We requested a mediation proposal due to the unresolved differences between labor and management. After waiting for nearly 12 hours, the proposal actually regressed." He emphasized that the union is demanding the elimination of the performance bonus cap and its institutionalization and transparency, which were not addressed.
The union plans to initiate a general strike from May 21 to June 7 if negotiations fail.
However, with the commission's request to resume mediation, there is hope for renewed dialogue. Mediation can begin if the commission recognizes its necessity and both parties agree.
The union is demanding a distribution of performance bonuses equivalent to 15% of operating profit and the elimination of the performance bonus cap, which is currently set at 50% of annual salary, along with the institutionalization of these demands. Choi stated, "If institutionalization and transparency are not achieved, there is no reason to engage in dialogue."
On the other hand, management views the institutionalization as potentially reducing future investment capacity, widening compensation disparities among business units, and causing adverse effects on other companies. With both sides holding differing views, discussions have effectively stalled.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.