Samsung Electronics is going on strike in South Korea

The strike targeted Samsung’s chip division, which produces a variety of crucial components such as RAM, NAND flash chips, USB flash drives, SD cards, Exynos processors, camera sensors, modems, NFC chips and power/display controllers.

It is worth noting that Samsung is a global leader in the semiconductor industry, a crucial sector for modern technology that includes everything from smartphones to data centers. Semiconductors are essential for the operation of a wide range of electronic devices, and the South Korean company produces some of the most advanced components on the market. Its division not only makes memory chips and processors, but also a variety of components that are vital to the performance and efficiency of electronic devices.

Despite its production, the company has faced significant challenges in this sector due to market volatility, fluctuations in demand and intense competition.

It should be noted that the Unpacked event is scheduled for July 10, so this union meeting highlights deep-rooted issues around unionization within Samsung, marking a significant shift in the company’s work dynamic. During the June strike – which lasted only one day – union members posted notices on the doors of Samsung facilities, outlining their grievances and demands.

Lee Hyun-kuk, vice president of the Samsung Electronics National Union, described the move as “a big symbolic move, but a start.” He stressed that the union has contingency plans for further strikes if management fails to address their grievances. Lee said the possibility of a full general strike remains on the table, underscoring the union’s determination to push for its demands to be met.

The union is pushing for a 6.5% pay increase, in contrast to the 5.1% increase proposed by the company, as well as an additional day of annual leave and a more transparent approach to calculating bonuses. Bonuses are particularly important because they make up a significant portion of employees’ pay.