Labor action at the world’s top memory-chip maker risks disrupting global semiconductor supply chains amid stalled wage talks.
Samsung Electronics’ union will strike Thursday after mediation talks with management collapsed, citing delays in decision-making. The union accepted a mediator’s proposal, but management failed to respond in time, ending negotiations formally on Tuesday evening.
The strike involves workers at Samsung’s South Korean operations, critical for DRAM and NAND flash memory production. Prior talks had shown little progress, with the union demanding better wages and conditions. Samsung’s output is pivotal for global tech supply chains, raising concerns over potential shortages.
South Korean shares were under pressure ahead of the strike, with the KOSPI index reflecting broader market unease. The union stated it remains open to negotiations despite the planned action.