SK Hynix and Union Clash Over Stock-Based Bonus Plan

A semiconductor company and its workforce are locked in a dispute over the structure of employee bonuses. SK Hynix and a South Korean labor union are conducting a fifth round of negotiations on August 5, 2026, at the company's factory complex in Cheongju to resolve the conflict.

The disagreement centers on a profit-sharing agreement requiring the company to distribute 10% of its annual operating profit to employees. Management has proposed paying more than half of these bonuses in shares with restricted sale periods and adjusting payments if the company incurs losses.

The union has rejected this proposal, stating it would absolutely not accept any arrangement in which union members bear the risk of stock-price fluctuations. Union leadership warned it would take necessary action if the company fails to present a concrete revised proposal during the talks.