Samsung Biologics Strike Costs $101M, Union Demands More

Samsung Biologics has estimated that a labor strike over pay has incurred costs of approximately 150 billion won ($101.90 million) as of Monday, May 4, 2026. The disruption has led to a partial impact on overall line production. The strike began on April 28, with about half of the company's 2,861 employees participating.

The union is demanding a 9.3% increase in base salary and a bonus equivalent to 20% of operating profit, alongside other benefits. Management's offer stands at a 6.2% pay rise. The dispute could potentially slow down the company's efforts to secure new client orders and might affect decisions regarding the construction of a sixth plant.

This labor action is part of a wider trend of unrest within the Samsung Group. Unions at Samsung Electronics are also contemplating industrial action, specifically threatening an 18-day strike from May 21, 2026, over bonus increases. Such actions could disrupt shipments and influence semiconductor prices.

Samsung Biologics' clients include major pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer, Merck, and Novartis. The company's five plants have a combined capacity of approximately 784,000 liters for producing biologics. Both parties are scheduled to resume talks on Monday.