Samsung Electronics union leader faces favoritism allegations

Choi Seung-ho, chairman of the Samsung Electronics branch of the Samsung Group Super-Enterprise Labor Union, is facing allegations of favoritism regarding union procurement. It has been confirmed that the union contracted with a company owned by Choi’s father-in-law to supply items such as vests for protest activities.

In an explanation sent to union members via an anonymous chatroom, Choi acknowledged the relationship but denied any wrongdoing or personal financial gain. He stated that the decision was based on a comprehensive comparison of multiple vendors, noting that the father-in-law’s company offered the lowest price and could meet the urgent delivery schedule required by the joint struggle headquarters.

Choi emphasized that the contract was approved by the executive members of the joint struggle headquarters and that he received no rebates, commissions, or refunds. He further claimed that the selection actually reduced union dues by securing a lower price. To prevent future concerns, Choi stated that the union is now strictly excluding contracts with companies owned by relatives of union officials.