(LEAD) Hyundai Motor workers stage full-scale strike over wage disputes

The labor union representing Hyundai Motor Co. workers initiated a full-day strike on Friday after negotiations over wages broke down, signaling the first such eight-hour walkout in ten years. Production lines at plants in Ulsan, Jeonju, and Asan will be halted for a total of 16 hours across two shifts, with approximately 39,000 union members participating.

This marks one of sixty hours of strikes the union has carried out since wage discussions commenced in May, potentially resulting in a loss of around 55,200 vehicles and sales shortfall of 2.3 trillion won ($1.64 billion). Additional four-hour walkouts are planned for Monday and Tuesday, further exacerbating the production disruptions.

The impasse stems from disagreements over a proposed 50 percent increase in performance-based pay, reinstating union members dismissed for illegal activities, and extending the retirement age. Meanwhile, Kia Corp., Hyundai's sister company, approved a plan for partial strikes from Wednesday to Friday, demanding a 149,600 won monthly base pay increase and a performance bonus equivalent to 30 percent of the company's operating profit from the previous year. If the union proceeds, it would represent Kia's first strike in six years.