Choi Seung-ho Faces Controversy Over 370 Million Won Deal with Family Business

Choi Seung-ho, chairman of the Samsung Group's Choi Seung-ho Union at Samsung Electronics, is embroiled in a moral controversy following revelations of a multi-million won transaction with a company owned by his father-in-law. Choi defended the deal as a decision based on legitimate comparative estimates, but the Jeon Samsung Union, another labor group within Samsung Electronics, quickly refuted his claims, escalating tensions between the unions.

According to industry sources, during preparations for a general strike in March and April, the Choi Seung-ho Union purchased various items for rallies and events, including vests, raincoats, and amplifiers, from Company A, operated by Choi's father-in-law. The total transaction amount, excluding duplicate orders, reached approximately 370 million won, with over 140 million won spent solely on vests.

In response to allegations of favoritism and improper profit acquisition, Choi addressed union members through group chat platforms. He acknowledged that the company is his father-in-law's but emphasized that the contract was not intended for personal gain or kickbacks. He stated that multiple vendors were evaluated based on price, quality, and delivery timelines, and the most favorable conditions were selected. Choi claimed this was the best decision for reducing union costs and ensuring prompt supply, asserting that the agreement had the backing of the joint struggle headquarters and was known to other unions.

However, the Jeon Samsung Union immediately challenged Choi's explanation. The union's central executive committee stated, "We were not informed or aware of this transaction beforehand," dismissing Choi's assertion that the Jeon Samsung Union was aware as a blatant falsehood.

A representative from the Jeon Samsung Union criticized Choi, stating, "The organization responsible for the purchases at that time was a separately operated joint struggle headquarters, and most of the key personnel who led those decisions have since moved to the Choi Seung-ho Union," accusing Choi of attempting to evade responsibility by mentioning another union.

Choi has previously been under investigation by police for alleged violations of the Personal Information Protection Act related to the creation of a union blacklist.