Hyundai Motor Union Holds First Full Strike in a Decade

Hyundai Motor's South Korean union launched its first full strike in ten years on Friday, halting work after wage negotiations broke down. The action follows a series of partial walkouts since late July that have already disrupted production of over 55,000 vehicles, valued at more than 2.3 trillion won (about $1.67 billion).

The one-day strike, organized by the Korea Metal Workers Union, includes workers from Hyundai, its affiliate Kia Corp, and suppliers. A rally is planned outside Hyundai's headquarters in Seoul at 2 p.m. local time.

The union is pushing for a higher mandatory retirement age, currently set at 60, aligning with President Lee Jae Myung's pledge to raise the limit in one of the world's fastest-aging societies. It also seeks a bonus increase to 800% of monthly base salary from 750%, and demands guarantees to protect jobs as the company adopts artificial intelligence and automation.

Hyundai, which owns robot maker Boston Dynamics, has announced plans to deploy humanoid robots at its U.S. plant in Georgia from 2028, with broader use across production sites.

Union spokesperson Kim Jin-wook said the two sides remain apart on retirement age and bonuses. The union is open to resuming talks but will consider further strike action if management does not present "forward-looking proposals."

Hyundai said it remains committed to dialogue, noting that strikes could affect customers, partners, and operations. The company emphasized the need for cooperation during the global shift to future mobility.

The labour unrest adds pressure on the automaker, which in July warned it might miss its global sales target this year due to rising Chinese competition in Europe and weaker domestic demand.