Samsung Electronics' largest union, the Samsung Group Super Union, has reported that a majority of its members oppose the company's Honam semiconductor project and is calling for renewed negotiations involving the government, the company, and the union.
In a statement on July 13, the union revealed that a recent survey of its members showed 84% opposed the Honam semiconductor project. The union cited concerns over potential job relocations, working conditions, and treatment as the main reasons for the opposition.
The union also announced plans to address the Honam semiconductor project as a key issue in wage and collective bargaining negotiations scheduled for 2027. They stated, "Decisions affecting the working conditions of union members, under the Yellow Envelope Law, should also be subject to negotiations," emphasizing the need for discussions with the union during the project's implementation.
Additionally, the union reiterated its request for a tripartite committee involving the government, the company, and the union, which was proposed on July 1 but has yet to receive a response. The union stressed, "Given that this project affects the working conditions of tens of thousands, it must be pursued through sufficient dialogue with the union."
The union claimed that the company expressed concerns about the project during two meetings. They added, "If the plan lacks confidence from both potential workers and investing companies, what is needed now is not speed but a process to build trust."
Previously, Samsung Electronics announced plans to invest 300 trillion won in the Pyeongtaek and Yongin semiconductor clusters and 40 trillion won in the Honam region as part of its 'three mega projects' announced last month. The Honam project includes the establishment of an advanced semiconductor production base and related industrial ecosystem.
However, the company has maintained that, as the Honam project is a long-term investment plan, specific timelines for investment, facility placement, and workforce management have not yet been finalized.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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