Samsung employees stage historic first-ever strike

Members of the labor union at South Korean tech giant Samsung have conducted a one-day strike, marking the first such action in the company's 86-year history. The strike, which took place on June 7, 2024, comes amidst prolonged negotiations between the union and Samsung management over wage increases and other employee benefits.

The decision to strike was overwhelmingly supported by union members, with 75% voting in favor of the one-day walkout. The date was strategically chosen to minimize disruption to Samsung's production cycle, as it falls between the national holiday "Memorial Day" and the weekend. Many employees work in high-tech chip manufacturing facilities that operate on a continuous basis.

While the exact number of employees who participated in the strike remains unclear, the union represents approximately 28,000 workers, roughly a quarter of Samsung's total workforce.

Additionally, a small group of around ten people staged a picket outside the company's headquarters, holding placards and chanting slogans demanding fair pay for workers and other rank-and-file employees.

The striking workers also alleged discrimination against union members, claiming they received lower annual bonuses compared to non-unionized employees in the previous year. This strike marks a significant moment in Samsung's history, as the company has long been known for its strike-free record and strong corporate culture.