[Unofficial translation from the Business and Human Rights Resource Center]

"S. Korea: Samsung Electronics accused of pressuring strike participants to "reflect personnel evaluation" 30 July 2024

As the National Samsung Electronics Workers' Union (‘Jeonsamno’) strike entered its fourth week on Monday, Jeonsamno claimed that some managers made comments about penalizing striking members, which is an illegal and unfair labour practice. It also said that it has entered into intensive negotiations with the company for three days from today.

Jeonsamno issued a press release on the same day, revealing remarks made by managers on the phone and in group chat rooms, demanding that the company "stop unfair labour practices." According to the documents, on the fourth day of the strike, a Samsung Electronics part manager called a striking union member and said, "We have a list of people who participated in the strike. Those (who participated in the strike) should also be reflected in the (personnel) evaluation." Another group leader also said in a group chat room on the 24th, "They are using the strike on the day of the strike without any indication," adding, "It is a challenge to the leader and a clear case of absenteeism, and we will definitely hold them accountable." The comments could lead to future penalties for striking workers.

…The South Korean Trade Union and Labour Relations Adjustment Act prohibits unfair labour practices that disadvantage workers for legitimate union activities such as strikes or interfere with union activities with the aim of weakening the union. "Managers with the authority to evaluate personnel are interfering with legitimate union activities," said Jeonsamno, "and they should stop this unfair labour practice." In response, a Samsung Electronics company official said, "The company is ensuring that no unfair labour practices occur." "We will check the specific facts and take necessary measures." ....