Samsung Biologics filed a criminal complaint against a union member on charges of trespassing into the production site without authorization during the strike and disrupting operations. The union is continuing a "law-abiding struggle" even after ending the full strike. Tensions are escalating during labor-management talks.
According to the industry on the 6th, a one-on-one meeting between labor and management that had been scheduled for 3 p.m. that day was canceled at management's notice. A tripartite meeting of labor, management, and government is set for the 8th.
Earlier, on the 4th, Samsung Biologics filed a complaint against a union member on charges of obstruction of business for trespassing into the production site during the strike and disrupting operations. The company judged the act to be an illegal act beyond the scope of duty, not a legitimate industrial action.
The company said biopharmaceutical production processes are strictly controlled under GMP and SOP standards, and access by unauthorized personnel could affect the quality control system. In addition to the criminal complaint, it is reviewing further measures such as disciplinary action and damage claims.
The union says the act was lawful union activity. Park Jae-seong, Chairperson of the Samsung Biologics Win-Win Union, said, "It was an on-site inspection-type activity with no violence or occupation," and argued, "It does not constitute obstruction of business."
The union held the company's first full strike since its founding from the 1st to the 5th, with about 2,800 people participating. The company estimated losses at about 150 billion won.
The union is continuing a law-abiding struggle by refusing extended and holiday work even after the strike ended, raising the possibility of continued production disruptions.
The core issues surrounding wages and a collective agreement also remain at an impasse.
The union is demanding a 14.3% wage increase, a 30 million won incentive per person, and distribution of 20% of operating profit as a performance bonus. The company, meanwhile, offered a 6.2% increase and a one-time payment of 6 million won.
There is also a wide gap over the union's demand to participate in management matters such as the introduction of new technology, personnel, and mergers and acquisitions (M&A).
To address the potential introduction of an AI- and robot-based "dark factory," the union also demanded that related clauses be codified in the collective agreement. The union's intent is to require joint labor-management consultation and resolution procedures when introducing new equipment or automation technologies or improving processes.
The company says the demand could infringe on management rights. The industry sees that if no compromise is reached in this round of talks, the possibility of additional strikes cannot be ruled out.