Alphabiz - Samsung Biologics Files Criminal Complaint Against Union Leaders as Labor Dispute Escalates

Photo = Samsung Biologics

[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] Samsung Biologics has filed criminal complaints against union leaders amid an intensifying labor dispute over wages, bonuses and personnel policies, raising uncertainty over the resumption of negotiations.

According to industry sources on May 8, the company filed charges with the Incheon Yeonsu Police Station against six individuals, including union chief Park Jae-sung and other executive members, on allegations of business obstruction. The company said it respects legitimate union activities but will take firm action against unlawful conduct that disrupts operations.

The move follows a partial court ruling by the Incheon District Court that restricted strike activities in three of nine production processes critical to preventing material degradation and ensuring drug quality. These processes include concentration and buffer exchange, bulk filling, and buffer production and supply.

Samsung Biologics claims the union effectively encouraged a collective refusal to work, leading to absences even in restricted processes and causing production disruptions. While the company estimates around 300 union members were involved, it initially targeted key personnel in the complaint, citing repeated unauthorized leave and work refusals that threatened operational stability.

The union rejected the allegations as excessive and inconsistent with the court’s intent, warning that legal action could intimidate members and heighten external concerns. Although workers have returned to their posts after a five-day strike earlier this month, they continue a “work-to-rule” campaign by refusing overtime and holiday shifts, with the possibility of further strikes still on the table.

The legal action has cast doubt on whether a scheduled tripartite meeting involving the Ministry of Employment and Labor will proceed as planned. A prior meeting between management and union representatives was also canceled due to disputes over disclosure of recorded conversations.

Industry observers warn that a prolonged standoff could undermine global client confidence and supply stability. The union is demanding a KRW 30 million incentive per employee, an average 14% wage increase, and distribution of 20% of operating profit as performance bonuses. Partial strikes and a large-scale walkout involving approximately 2,800 workers have already disrupted some production, with the company estimating losses at around KRW 150 billion.

Alphabiz Reporter Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)