Chanel Korea Cosmetics Union Begins Indefinite Strike Starting on the 17th

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Yoon-joo] Chanel Korea cosmetics sales employees will begin an indefinite full strike starting on the 17th, demanding fair wage payments and job security.

The Chanel Korea branch of the National Department Store Duty-Free Sales Service Labor Union announced this at a press conference held on the 7th.

Since September, the Chanel Korea branch has been engaging in industrial action demanding improvements in working conditions and treatment, but they claim that the company has not engaged in responsible negotiations. They are demanding recognition of labor contributions to online sales, fair wage guarantees, guaranteed statutory paid holidays, and the establishment of policies to eradicate workplace sexual harassment.

On the same day, the Chanel Korea branch also reported the company to the Ministry of Employment and Labor for violating the Labor Standards Act and the Trade Union and Labor Relations Adjustment Act. This was due to the company not paying holiday work allowances for statutory holidays since 2020. According to the Chanel Korea branch, out of approximately 480 cosmetics sales workers, about 390 are union members.

Kim So-yeon, head of the Chanel Korea branch, said, "Our demands are clear. The company should not monopolize performance profits but pay fair wages," adding, "The only reason negotiations are failing is that the company is not fulfilling its responsibilities."

In response, Chanel Korea stated, "Over the past 11 months, we have made our best efforts to reach an agreement with the union on wages and collective bargaining to maintain and strengthen compensation above the industry average for employees," and added, "Despite these efforts, we deeply regret the difficulties in reaching an agreement due to differences with the union."