Hyundai Union Calls First Full-Day Strike in a Decade
Hyundai Motor's union in South Korea has called a full-day strike for the first time in 10 years. Talks with management on wages broke down before the walkout was announced.
Around 40,000 union members were expected to stop work on Friday. Workers at Kia and several auto parts suppliers also backed the action. Production at Hyundai's main plants was set to halt across both shifts for the day.
Union leaders want the mandatory retirement age raised from 60. They're also demanding a higher annual bonus of 800% of monthly base salary, up from 750%, and stronger job protection as AI and automation spread on the assembly line.
Shorter walkouts since late July have already cut output by about 55,200 vehicles. That works out to lost sales of more than US$1.67 billion, according to the union, which warns the losses could grow if no deal is reached.
Hyundai, meanwhile, is pushing further into automation and robotics. The company plans to deploy humanoid robots at its new U.S. plant in Georgia from 2028. Both sides say they remain open to fresh talks to end the dispute.
What This Means for Nepali Buyers
For Nepali buyers of Hyundai and Kia vehicles, a prolonged strike like this can delay deliveries. Dealer stock could also run low, particularly for popular export models built in South Korea.
Writes on vehicle pricing, taxation and the Nepali auto market from ongoing tracking of distributor price lists. Editorial policy.
