Samsung Electronics Union Calls for Tripartite Committee on Semiconductor Mega Project

The Mega Union of Samsung Electronics, the largest labor union at the company, has called for the establishment of a tripartite committee involving the government, businesses, and labor unions to address the southwestern semiconductor mega project. The union argues that discussions must encompass not only large-scale investments but also labor conditions, including workforce, housing, and industrial safety, to secure competitiveness in the semiconductor industry.

In a statement released on July 1 titled "Position of the Mega Union on the Mega Project," the union emphasized, "The mega project is a task that will determine the future of South Korea's semiconductor industry," and stressed the need for thorough preparation rather than haste, advocating for a long-term perspective in planning.

The union highlighted the necessity of active government support amid intensifying global competition in the semiconductor sector. It stated, "As competitors leverage comprehensive government support to catch up, we must protect the competitiveness of the fields we have led," and called for bold investments to secure key talent and technology.

To maintain competitiveness across the semiconductor industry, including memory, foundry, and system semiconductors, the union underscored the need for joint efforts from both the government and businesses. It stated, "To ensure the stability of South Korea's semiconductor ecosystem, support from both the government and the company is essential."

The union also pointed out that discussions regarding workers' living conditions and the establishment of industrial infrastructure must accompany the development of large-scale semiconductor clusters. The statement included, "At the core of all this is the people," expressing hope that the industrial safety, living environment, and infrastructure where union members will work are adequately provided, along with appropriate treatment.

It further emphasized, "A good working environment and fair treatment are the most certain ways to retain talented individuals and form the foundation of semiconductor competitiveness."

The Mega Union also asserted that its participation in the mega project should be formalized. The union stated, "These challenges can only be addressed when we unite our efforts," and pledged that the labor union, which understands the workplace best, will fulfill its role.

The union proposed a forum for dialogue where the government, companies, and labor unions can come together, expressing hope that constructive discussions will lead to a new leap for South Korea as a national priority.

This statement follows Samsung Electronics' announcement of plans for the southwestern semiconductor mega project, which involves an investment of approximately 400 trillion won to establish two large semiconductor production facilities in Gwangju. It reflects a demand for the labor sector to be officially involved in discussions during the implementation of large-scale industrial policies.

Given the substantial investment required for establishing semiconductor production facilities, along with lengthy permitting processes, securing power and water supply chains, and addressing workforce issues, the need for a collaborative discussion structure involving the government, businesses, and labor is expected to grow.