Samsung Biologics Union Seeks Talks With Electronics

The Samsung Biologics Sangsaeng Labor Union has requested direct collective bargaining with Samsung Electronics, the company's second-largest shareholder, instead of the management. The union contends that Samsung Electronics participates in personnel and compensation systems, making it a logical bargaining partner. On October 6th, the union sent a document to Samsung Electronics demanding collective agreement bargaining on personnel and compensation systems.

The union's requested scope is extensive, covering job and position evaluation systems, compensation standards, personnel and compensation system design and operation, and notification and application methods. Additionally, the union seeks to receive personnel data related to Samsung Biologics and a list of bargaining committee members by October 12th.

The union plans to hold the first negotiation on October 14th at the Samsung Biologics workplace. This demand is limited to agendas that acknowledge Samsung Electronics as a de facto employer. If Samsung Electronics fails to comply with legal procedures, the union plans to officially confirm the employer status of Samsung Electronics through a petition to the Labor Relations Commission.

The union's conflict with management at Samsung Biologics has persisted for over half a year, with negotiations on wage increases and personnel system improvements yielding no agreement. Three mediation sessions have been held, but both parties have remained at odds. Tensions have escalated, with the union already conducting a partial strike in late April, a general strike in early May, and continuing a work-to-rule struggle by refusing overtime and holiday work.

A second general strike, lasting three weeks starting October 26th, has been announced. The union's strategy involves bringing Samsung Electronics to the negotiation table, drawing industry attention to the potential impact on labor-management relations and personnel systems throughout the Samsung Group.