[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] South Korea’s biopharmaceutical industry is facing rising labor tensions, with concerns growing over potential summer labor disputes as unions gain momentum at major companies.

According to industry sources on June 9, the labor union at Samsung Biologics is considering withdrawing from its umbrella labor organization and pursuing a more independent strategy. The union plans to hold a general meeting from June 16 to 18, followed by a vote among members from June 24 to 28 on whether to exit the broader federation.

The move comes amid prolonged disagreements with management over wage and collective bargaining negotiations. Industry observers note that leaving the umbrella union could intensify labor actions by shifting the focus to company-level negotiations.

Legal disputes are also ongoing, with both sides reportedly failing to reach an agreement during a recent court hearing related to an injunction on strike actions. Additional legal proceedings are expected to continue through July.

Concerns are particularly heightened given Samsung Biologics’ role as a leading contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), supplying pharmaceuticals to global clients. Prolonged labor disputes could raise questions about production stability and supply chain reliability.

At the same time, Celltrion has established its first labor union since its founding 25 years ago. The union is expected to focus on performance-based compensation and wage structure reforms, although formal negotiations have yet to begin.

Historically, Korea’s biopharma sector has seen relatively limited labor conflict compared to traditional manufacturing industries, supported by strong growth and a research-driven culture. However, as companies scale up and workforce expectations evolve, demands related to compensation and organizational management are becoming more pronounced.

Industry participants note that, unlike general manufacturing, biopharmaceutical production involves continuous processes that are costly and time-consuming to halt and restart. As such, both labor and management are expected to prioritize dialogue to avoid prolonged disruptions.

The developments signal a new test for an industry that has until now largely avoided major labor disputes.

 

 

 

[ⓒ 알파경제. 무단전재-재배포 금지]