Samsung Electronics Suwon Campus [Yonhap News File Photo]

The Samsung Electronics branch of the Samsung Group's conglomerate-wide labor union (hereinafter referred to as the "Conglomerate Union"), the largest labor union at Samsung Electronics, has announced its intention to include the government-promoted Honam semiconductor mega-project as a bargaining agenda item for 2027.

The union argues that with the implementation of the revised Trade Union and Labor Relations Adjustment Act (the "Yellow Envelope Act"), business decisions affecting the working conditions of union members have become subject to collective bargaining; therefore, the union's input must be reflected in the project's execution.

In a statement released on the 13th, the Conglomerate Union stated, "A survey of our members revealed that 84% opposed the Honam semiconductor mega-project," and conveyed their position accordingly.

Previously, on the 1st, the union proposed the formation of a tripartite consultative body involving the government, companies, and labor unions. At that time, they stated, "Operating a single semiconductor production line is a long journey that takes at least five years, including site selection, obtaining permits, and securing infrastructure such as power and water supply," emphasizing the need to approach the project from a long-term perspective.

Furthermore, the union referenced comments made by Jeon Young-hyun, head of Samsung Electronics' DS Division (Vice Chairman), at the National Report Meeting on the Development Vision for Advanced Industries in the Honam Region on the 30th of last month, where he mentioned the necessity of expanding nuclear power and LNG combined heat and power plants. The union claimed, "In a recent meeting, the company also expressed a negative stance on the project, stating that 'the management is also feeling burdened by it.'"

The union added, "Under the Yellow Envelope Act legislated by the government and the ruling party, business decisions that affect the working conditions of union members have become subjects of bargaining," and declared, "As this is a project that could impact the workplaces and compensation of tens of thousands of employees, we will address related matters in the 2027 negotiations."

In its mega-project announcement last month, Samsung Electronics unveiled plans to invest approximately 400 trillion won in Gwangju, South Jeolla Province, to construct two new semiconductor fabs (factories). [Yonhap News]