GM Korea Union and Management Begin 2026 Wage Negotiations

The labor union and management of General Motors (GM) in South Korea convened for their inaugural negotiation meeting on May 27th, kicking off discussions for the 2026 wage and collective agreement. The meeting took place at the GM Korea headquarters in Bupyeong-gu, Incheon.

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If capital pursues unilateral restructuring amid industrial changes like the spread of physical artificial intelligence, the union will have no choice but to go its own way. I hope this year's wage and collective agreement negotiations conclude smoothly.

Key representatives from both sides attended the session, including Hector Villarreal, president of GM Korea, and Park Sang-man, president of the Metal Workers' Union, along with Ahn Gyu-baek, head of the GM Korea branch of the union. Union leaders emphasized the need for a smooth conclusion to the negotiations amidst industrial shifts, including the rise of AI and potential restructuring. They also highlighted past challenges, such as tariff risks following the U.S. presidential election and the company's decisions regarding direct repair shops and property sales, expressing hope for a resolution without major friction.

The union has put forth a proposal that includes a monthly base wage increase of 149,600 won, excluding regular incremental raises, and a performance bonus equivalent to 15% of the company's total revenue from the previous year, distributed among all employees, including temporary staff. Additional demands include a 20-minute extension to the lunch break, the introduction of a 4.5-day workweek by 2027, and the allocation of production for future vehicles, next-generation engines, and successor models to Korean facilities.

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The company's forward-thinking decisions can help coordinate key issues without major friction. We hope to conclude negotiations smoothly.

GM Korea President Hector Villarreal acknowledged the company's significant operating profits over the past four years, attributing them to the joint efforts of labor and management. He expressed his hope for a swift conclusion to the current negotiations, emphasizing the importance of collaboration as GM Korea embarks on a new chapter. Both parties appear committed to reaching an agreement that addresses their respective concerns and paves the way for future cooperation.

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The significant operating profits GM has achieved over the past four years show that the efforts and direction of labor and management have not been in vain. As we are in the process of opening a new future for GM Korea, I hope we can conclude negotiations quickly and move forward as one team.