Employees with South Korean-based manufacturer Samsung Biologics have voted in favor of going on strike, with the union citing "deep structural concerns" related to the company's ESG policies, a perceived lack of operational autonomy, and what they described as "passive" relations with labor.

According to a March 30 release from the union, members reportedly voted 95.5% in favor of a strike during a voting period between March 24 and March 29. The union also noted that the strike isn't solely related to a dispute over wages, with members highlighting issues with corporate governance, and levying allegations of unfair labor practices and unauthorized use of employee personal data.

"In the global contract development and manufacturing organization industry, unresolved labor disputes and compliance issues directly threaten the supply chain of our international clients," said Samsung Biologics Labor Union president Jaesung Park. "Ultimately, our strike is aimed at correcting these governance failures and promoting a more transparent and accountable corporate environment."

The union rejected a proposed 4.1% wage increase offered by parent company Samsung Electronics too, citing Samsung Biologics' 56.6% year-over-year increase in operating profit in 2025. Unless management presents a "credible and autonomous" proposal to the union in the weeks to come, the labor action is expected to begin with a rally on April 22, before a scheduled May 1 strike.

In a written statement to SupplyChainBrain regarding the planned strike, a Samsung Biologics spokesperson said that the company "respects the legitimate activities of labor unions and remains dedicated to fostering constructive labor‑management relations."

"The company remains committed to engaging in constructive dialogue with the union, with a clear focus on reaching a mutually acceptable resolution," they added. "All supply chain activities and operational commitments remain our highest priority, ensuring stability and continuity for client programs."