Core Viewpoint - Samsung Electronics is facing a potential strike involving approximately 89,000 employees, with demands for a 7% salary increase and the removal of performance bonus caps, which could exacerbate the global chip supply shortage if the strike occurs [2][3][4]. Group 1: Labor Negotiations - Three major unions representing about 89,000 Samsung employees are negotiating with management regarding salary issues and will vote this week on whether to initiate an 18-day strike from May 21 to June 7 [2][3]. - The unions' core demands include a 7% salary increase, the elimination of performance bonus caps, and increased transparency in bonus calculations [3][4]. Group 2: Impact on Semiconductor Supply - The potential strike is set to occur during a sensitive period for the global semiconductor supply chain, as demand is recovering and stability is a major concern [6]. - Samsung is one of the largest manufacturers of storage chips, and any production disruptions could significantly impact the global supply of DRAM and NAND flash memory [6]. Group 3: Historical Context - The planned strike would be the second large-scale work stoppage in Samsung's history, following the first strike in 2024, which did not affect production or management operations [5][6]. - The scale and duration of the upcoming strike are expected to have a more substantial impact compared to the previous one, as it involves a larger number of employees and a longer duration [6].