Celltrion has established its first labor union, marking a significant milestone 25 years after the company's founding. The union is advocating for transparency in performance pay criteria, improvements to the wage system, and the hiring of regular staff. Union representatives argue that discussions on a compensation system commensurate with the company's expected record performance are necessary.
According to the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions' Chemical, Textile, and Food Industry Workers' Union, Celltrion employees launched the 'Unitrion' branch of the union on June 1. This is the first union formed since the company was founded by Chairman Seo Jung-jin in 2002. The union announced its official establishment through a declaration but did not disclose the number of members.
In its founding declaration, the union stated, "We demand transparent compensation and respect that reflects our dedication." Key demands include the disclosure of criteria for excess profit-sharing bonuses and the establishment of a wage determination system based on negotiations. The union is also calling for the hiring of regular staff in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), improvements to rotating work schedules, enhanced employee welfare, and the rejection of unilateral work directives.
These demands are seen as closely related to the company's recent growth. Celltrion has been experiencing performance growth due to the expansion of biosimilar sales and the establishment of a direct sales system. Additionally, with the launch of its new drug business, the company has set a revenue target of 5.3 trillion won for this year. The union believes that with record performance anticipated, both performance pay and the wage system should be improved accordingly.
Labor issues are increasingly spreading across various industries. In the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors, discussions are ongoing. The union at Samsung Biologics conducted a five-day strike last month and continues to engage in lawful protests demanding wage and treatment improvements.
In response to the union's formation, Celltrion stated, "The company respects the rights guaranteed by law regarding the establishment of labor unions and plans to respond sincerely in accordance with laws and regulations as related procedures progress." The company added, "We will do our utmost to ensure stable operations and continuous growth through communication with employees and responsible management."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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