Incheon labor panel dismisses Samsung Biologics union's unfair labor practice claim

A regional labor commission has dismissed a Samsung Biologics union complaint alleging that management suppressed legitimate union activity ahead of a strike.

The Incheon Regional Labor Relations Commission rejected the unfair labor practice relief petition filed by the Samsung Biologics mutual-benefit union against the company on Monday, industry sources said Tuesday.

The union had taken issue with a company email and an internal notice board post the chief executive sent before the union launched a strike in May. In them, the CEO warned employees that a strike could affect the company's external credibility and performance bonuses. The union argued the communications were a clear act of unfair labor practice intended to chill union activity, and filed the petition with the regional commission.

The commission sided with management, accepting the company's explanation that informing employees of potential production disruptions and their business consequences constituted legitimate and necessary management activity, sources said.

The union said it would pursue further legal action against the ruling. It plans to file for a review with the National Labor Relations Commission once it receives the official written decision and examines its contents.

Beyond this petition, the union has submitted a total of four complaints to labor authorities — two alleging unfair labor practices and two alleging violations of the Labor Standards Act. Investigations into the remaining three complaints are ongoing.