Gwangju Global Motors Union Votes in Favor of Strike Amid Disputes

The union at Gwangju Global Motors (GGM) is moving closer to a strike as recent voting results show overwhelming support for industrial action. On December 31, the GGM union, part of the Korean Metal Workers' Union, announced that all 225 members participated in a vote regarding strike action, with 200 members (88.9%) in favor and 25 (11.1%) against. This marks a slight increase from the 85.9% approval rate seen in a similar vote in October.

The union's decision stems from dissatisfaction over the company's differential payment of bonuses and a perceived disregard for labor rights, as management and shareholders have not recognized the union as a legitimate negotiating partner. On December 26, GGM shareholders warned that if the union's strike leads to significant operational disruptions, they would consider legal action for damages and even seek to recover their investments.

Since October, the GGM union has been in negotiations with management, demanding a 7% salary increase (approximately 159,200 KRW), a 300% bonus, the introduction of a seniority wage system, and the assurance of free union activities. However, management has maintained that any wage increases can only reflect inflation rates, leading to a breakdown in negotiations. The union plans to hold a meeting to outline the schedule and specifics of the potential strike.