Semiconductor profit sharing must extend beyond corporate walls

The recent record-breaking profits of semiconductor giants like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix have ignited a national conversation about fair compensation, but the debate risks becoming narrowly focused on corporate boundaries. While the labor union's demand for a larger share of profits is understandable, rooted in the principle of 'reward for performance,' it overlooks the broader ecosystem that enables such success.

As a publication deeply invested in the nation's economic well-being, Hankyoreh believes it's crucial to consider the significant role of public infrastructure, research and development funding, and tax incentives provided by the government. These collective investments have paved the way for the semiconductor industry's prosperity. Therefore, the question arises: is it equitable for the benefits to be exclusively enjoyed by the regular employees of a few select corporations, while countless employees in partner companies and the wider public, who indirectly contribute, are left out?

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We need to consider whether the profits generated should be shared only among the internal members of the company.

The current structure of labor-management negotiations, primarily focused on individual companies rather than industry-wide dialogue, presents a significant hurdle. The absence of a strong stance from major labor federations on this issue is also a missed opportunity. While the government has acknowledged the need for broader profit distribution, as seen in past discussions on profit-sharing schemes, these initiatives have often faltered due to industry resistance. The comparison to AI-driven economic shifts and the potential for increased polarization further underscores the urgency of finding inclusive solutions.

From a Korean perspective, the semiconductor industry is a cornerstone of our national economy, a source of pride and a driver of technological advancement. However, this success should not create a wider chasm between the haves and have-nots. We must explore mechanisms that ensure the fruits of this collective endeavor are shared more equitably, fostering a sense of shared prosperity and mitigating the potential for social division. This requires moving beyond the confines of corporate interests and engaging in a more comprehensive, socially conscious dialogue.

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Words used in communist countries.