'Samsung Sniper' Park Yong-jin Slams Samsung Electronics' 'Insider Feast' Labor Dispute

From Seoul, the ongoing dispute between Samsung Electronics' labor union and management over performance bonuses is a disheartening spectacle. As the Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Regulatory Reform, I feel compelled to speak out against what appears to be a self-serving squabble, a 'feast for insiders' that neglects the broader ecosystem that makes Samsung's phenomenal success possible. It is deeply troubling that in their negotiations, neither side seems to acknowledge the crucial contributions of partner firms, subcontractors, and the company's own non-regular workforce.

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Looking at the labor-management negotiation process, I feel a very bitter feeling.

These entities have shared in Samsung's hardships, accepting reduced orders and lower prices during difficult times. Now, as the company celebrates astronomical profits, where is the discussion of sharing this prosperity? It is frankly uncomfortable to witness the company and its union locking horns over the spoils, rather than extending an invitation to those who have weathered the storms alongside them. This is not merely a labor dispute; it is a matter of fairness and recognizing the interconnectedness of success.

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Why is there no mention of the partner firms, subcontractors, and in-house non-regular workers who were with you in the process of creating Samsung Electronics' enormous achievements?

I call upon the labor union, as we commemorate Labor Day, to reflect on the spirit of worker solidarity embodied by figures like Jeon Tae-il. His legacy is one of compassion for the less fortunate, exemplified by his act of buying 'pulp bread' for hungry young female workers. True adherence to his ideals means considering the plight of those outside the union, the workers in more challenging professions, and those without collective bargaining power. To prioritize only one's own interests is to betray the very essence of his sacrifice.

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It is frankly uncomfortable to see you locked behind the door, feasting amongst yourselves and engaging in internal strife, without thinking of sharing the food on this celebratory day.

To Samsung Electronics, I propose a path of 'co-prosperity.' As the dominant '갑' (gap - the powerful party in a contract), Samsung has the opportunity and, I believe, the responsibility to initiate a genuine partnership. Use a portion of these immense profits to offer a concrete plan for shared growth to your subcontractors and non-regular employees. While past administrations spoke of trickle-down economics, Samsung has the chance to demonstrate a tangible 'fountain effect' – a clear demonstration of how corporate success can uplift the entire economic community. This is not just about resolving a labor conflict; it is about Samsung repaying the immense benefits it has received from the nation by contributing meaningfully to the national economy.

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If Korean labor unions intend to follow Jeon Tae-il, they must think of the powerless, the more difficult job groups, and the workers outside the union.