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Samsung Electronics shares fell sharply on Friday after the company’s largest labor union confirmed it would move forward with a planned strike later this month despite renewed calls for negotiations. The decline added pressure to the South Korean tech giant as investors reacted to concerns over potential disruptions to production and exports.
Samsung Electronics stock dropped 7.6% to 273,500 won during Friday trading, significantly underperforming the broader KOSPI index. The decline followed statements from the National Samsung Electronics Union, which said it would continue with its scheduled 18-day strike beginning May 21. However, the union also noted it remains open to resuming discussions with management after June 7.
Talks between Samsung and labor representatives recently broke down after government-led mediation efforts failed to resolve disagreements over employee compensation and bonus policies. Union leaders are demanding changes to the company’s profit-sharing system, including the removal of bonus caps and the introduction of a structure tied more closely to operating profits.
Workers have also expressed frustration over what they describe as a growing pay gap between Samsung Electronics and rival semiconductor company SK Hynix. The competitor recently introduced improved bonus packages for employees, increasing pressure on Samsung to revise its compensation model.
South Korean government officials, including the prime minister and industry minister, have encouraged both sides to continue negotiations in an effort to avoid economic fallout. Authorities warned that a prolonged Samsung strike could negatively affect South Korea’s exports, financial markets, and overall economic growth, particularly given the company’s major role in the global semiconductor industry.
The situation is being closely monitored by investors and analysts, as any disruption to Samsung’s chip production could impact the broader technology supply chain and semiconductor market in 2026.
