Samsung Biologics union votes to leave Samsung Group United Union

Unionized workers at Samsung Biologics have voted to leave the Samsung Group United Union, a coalition representing employees across various Samsung affiliates. The decision, passed with 96.5% approval from 2,479 participating members, aims to establish an independent labor union to more directly and swiftly reflect the interests and demands of its members.

This move comes as Samsung Biologics workers have been engaged in a work-to-rule campaign since early last month, demanding pay increases and improved working conditions. They previously staged a partial strike in late April and a five-day walkout in early May. Negotiations with management are scheduled for this week.

The division within the group-wide union follows a wage deal that reportedly concentrated significant bonuses on Samsung's semiconductor business. The Samsung Group United Union, founded in February 2024 and including workers from Samsung Display and Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance, as well as Samsung Electronics, reportedly lost its majority status in early June as members, particularly from non-chip divisions, withdrew.