The Hyundai Motor Union has recently made public its intention to carry out a partial, three-day strike beginning on September 3. This move represents the first instance of such industrial action in almost seven years. The root cause of the strike lies in the unresolved disputes between the labor force and management, particularly concerning the allocation of performance bonuses. To be more specific, workers on the morning and evening shifts will stage work stoppages for two hours each day from September 3 to 4, and extend this to four hours on September 5.

Between 2019 and 2024, both the labor union and management successfully steered clear of strikes, engaging in collective bargaining for six consecutive years. Nevertheless, their efforts have proven futile in reaching an agreement, as evidenced by the twenty rounds of negotiations held since June 2025 that have failed to yield a consensus. The union has articulated a series of demands, encompassing wage hikes, enhanced performance bonuses, a postponement of the retirement age, and the adoption of a four-and-a-half-day workweek.

However, the company's management team has adopted a cautious stance towards these demands. This caution stems from the potential downturn in operating profits, a risk exacerbated by the imposition of U.S. tariffs and the sluggish demand for electric vehicles in the market.