Giheung, South Korea— Women working on Samsung Electronics’ 8-inch semiconductor production line are striking, citing severe working conditions. Many suffer from ailments like degenerative osteoarthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and varicose veins due to the labor intensity. Workers also report being denied menstrual leave and paid time off.
Samsung claims adherence to safety standards, but employees describe being treated like machines, with no relief during shifts. The strike, the first in Samsung Electronics’ history, has reduced production capacity to 18%.
Health Issues and Labor Conditions
Workers, primarily women in their 20s to 40s, report deformed fingers, varicose veins, and bladder infections from their job duties. The labor involves manually transporting silicon wafers weighing 3 to 5 kilograms for eight hours a day. Workers describe a grueling environment where even taking lunch breaks adds stress as the machinery never stops.
Company’s Stance
Samsung asserts that it complies with all safety regulations and denies higher sickness rates on the 8-inch line. The company maintains that despite the strike, production quotas are being met, and countermeasures are in place to address any issues.
Worker Testimonials
Employees shared their experiences in a group chat, posting photos of their deformed hands and describing the toll on their health. One worker said, “My thumb is becoming deformed. My thumb is a badge of honor from the 8-inch production line.” Others highlighted the psychological stress from performance evaluations and the physical strain of the labor.
Union’s Demands
The National Samsung Electronics Union (NSEU) organized the strike, which began six days ago. Workers demand better treatment and conditions, emphasizing that pay raises and days off are not their top concern. “We just don’t want to be treated as disposable parts,” said one worker.
The 8-inch production line at Samsung’s Giheung plant is outdated, relying on manual labor for tasks automated in newer lines.
Impact on Production
The strike has significantly impacted production, with the line operating at only 18% capacity. Samsung, however, claims to be drafting countermeasures to ensure production continues smoothly.
