The Hyundai Motor Union has escalated its strike amid ongoing difficulties in wage and collective bargaining negotiations. The participation of major parts suppliers in the strike has further exacerbated production disruptions.
According to industry sources, the Metal Workers' Union of Hyundai Motor conducted a four-hour partial strike on July 20. This marks the fourth strike of the year, doubling the duration from the two-hour partial strike held last week.
Morning shift production workers stopped work at 10:50 a.m. to either leave the factory or attend a rally within the plant. The afternoon shift is set to begin its strike at 7:30 p.m. The union plans to continue the four-hour partial strikes daily until July 22.
Negotiations between the union and management have shown little progress. There have been no official talks since the 15th round of negotiations on July 8, and practical discussions have reportedly made no significant headway.
Industry analysts believe that if an agreement is not reached by July 24, negotiations may extend into the summer vacation period, raising concerns about a prolonged strike.
The union stated, "We will not be fixated on reaching an agreement before the summer vacation. If the company desires a confrontation, we will respond to the end."
Production disruptions are expected to worsen as the strike at parts suppliers compounds the situation. The union at Motras, a key Hyundai parts supplier, joined a general strike on July 15, causing delays in the supply of essential components such as chassis modules needed for vehicle assembly.
Hyundai management has expressed that the union is delaying negotiations by presenting demands that exceed the scope of discussions, including requests for extended retirement age, reinstatement of dismissed workers, and increased bonuses. The company has proposed a monthly base salary increase of 89,000 won, a performance bonus of 350%, and the distribution of 15 shares of company stock.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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