Samsung Electronics Union Plans Protest Over Pay Disparities

The labor union representing employees of Samsung Electronics' DX division, which handles products like smartphones and home appliances, has announced plans to hold a protest rally. The demonstration is scheduled to take place near the residence of Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong, starting September 18.

The union cites a significant pay gap between the DX division and the semiconductor division (DS) as the primary reason for their action. They argue that the DX division was marginalized in a recent salary agreement. Key demands from the union include the distribution of 1,000 company shares to each DX division employee, the establishment of a unified profit-sharing pool from the company's operating profits, and a standardized base salary increase across the company.

This follows a previous rally held in late August near Samsung's Seocho building, where the union blamed management's decisions for the DX division's declining profitability. They are seeking direct dialogue with management regarding their demands.

The Korean business community has expressed criticism regarding the union's demands. Some view the request for 1,000 shares per employee as unrealistic given the DX division's current business challenges. Additionally, it is noted that a salary agreement was already reached and approved through government mediation, potentially undermining the union's current collective action on legal grounds.