The Geoje Tongyeong Goseong Shipyard Subcontracting Branch of the Korean Metal Workers’ Union (hereinafter referred to as “the Union”) publicly condemns Samsung Heavy Industries for alleged illegal dismissal of foreign workers, wage withholding, and human rights violations.
On November 25, the labor union stated in a press release: “Amid a new super boom in the global shipbuilding industry, Samsung Heavy Industries continues to illegally dismiss foreign workers while violating their wage rights and human rights.” The union specifically cited major cases involving E7-3 visa workers at Samsung Heavy Industries, including forced resignations, wage deductions and a nationality discriminatory disciplinary system.
According to information disclosed by the union, three foreign workers holding E7-3 visas at Samsung Heavy Industries were forced to resign after only six to seven months on the job. These foreign workers had initially signed two-year employment contracts upon joining the company.
South Korean media reports that under the country’s E7-3 visa system, foreign workers typically face significant barriers to changing employers and are effectively unable to resign voluntarily. Consequently, labor unions suspect Samsung Heavy Industries of engaging in unfair dismissals. Affected workers are reportedly being forced to return home burdened with debt or risk becoming illegal residents.
On the other hand, Samsung Heavy Industries’ wage calculation method for foreign workers has also sparked controversy. The company initially paid wages based on 80% of Gross National Income (GNI), which included a fixed overtime allowance. However, it abruptly revised the system seven months after the foreign workers joined the company. Subsequently, it began separately charging foreign workers a monthly meal fee of 180,000 won, leading to allegations of wage deductions.
Finally, the union accused Samsung Heavy Industries of implementing a “yellow card/red card” system only on foreign workers, which could constitute “public humiliation and discrimination.” The union also accused Samsung Heavy Industries of “implementing racially discriminatory measures under the pretext of communication barriers,” and revealed suspicions of forcing workers to work 40 hours of fixed overtime per month and concealing workplace injuries.
In summary, the union demands that Samsung Heavy Industries cease the improper dismissal of foreign workers, wage deductions, and human rights violations. It urges the company to issue a formal apology and establish measures to prevent similar incidents from recurring.