Samsung Executives Urge Union to Engage in Unconditional Dialogue Amid Strike Threat

Samsung Electronics executives, including Vice Chairman Jeon Young-hyun and President Roh Tae-moon, have reiterated their call for unconditional dialogue with the union, which has indicated a refusal to resume talks and a commitment to a general strike.

In an official statement titled "We Apologize to the Public," the executive team acknowledged the significant burden and concern their labor issues have caused for the public and the government. They stated, "As our achievements grow, the expectations society has for Samsung become stricter and greater, and we have failed to adequately address this."

The executives expressed a deep sense of responsibility for the current situation, saying, "We feel a heavy responsibility for how things have turned out. We sincerely apologize." They urged the union to resume dialogue, emphasizing, "We consider the union to be part of our family and a community of shared fate, and we will approach discussions with an open attitude without conditions. We again request that the union engage in talks promptly, keeping in mind the public's concerns and the national economy."

Additionally, Samsung emphasized its commitment to resolving internal issues amicably and strengthening its core competitiveness. The executives noted, "We are in an era of infinite competition where the global business environment is changing rapidly, and we cannot afford to waste time on internal problems. It is time for labor and management to unite and secure business competitiveness through continuous technological innovation and bold investments for the future."

They also highlighted the unique nature of the semiconductor industry, stating, "Unlike other industries, semiconductor manufacturing requires continuous operation 24/7, so strikes should not occur. If we fail to meet our commitments to customers, we will completely lose our trust assets," emphasizing the risks associated with a potential strike.

The statement concluded with a commitment from the executive team to collaborate and share wisdom while considering the current economic situation and South Korea's long-term future. They promised to be a steadfast pillar for the national economy through sound management, continuous technological innovation, and bold future investments.

The statement included signatures from all members of the executive team, including Vice Chairman Jeon Young-hyun, President Roh Tae-moon, and other executives such as Kim Soo-mok, Kim Yong-gwan, Kim Woo-jun, Kim Won-kyung, Nam Seok-woo, Mauro Porcini, Park Seung-hee, Park Yong-in, Park Hong-geun, Baek Soo-hyun, Song Jae-hyuk, Yong Seok-woo, Yoon Jang-hyun, Lee Won-jin, Choi Won-jun, and Han Jin-man.