Samsung Electronics is facing a significant strike after negotiations with the union representing approximately 74,000 workers broke down over wage disputes. The union, led by Choi Seung-ho, plans to initiate an 18-day strike starting Thursday, citing inadequate compensation from management despite the company's record profits fueled by a surge in demand for semiconductors and artificial intelligence. Samsung reported an operating profit of 57.2 trillion won (around $38 billion USD) for the January-March quarter, prompting union leaders to demand that the company allocate 15% of its annual operating profit for employee bonuses, while also seeking to eliminate existing bonus caps. Management has described these demands as excessive, especially considering the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry. The South Korean government has expressed concerns over the potential economic fallout from the strike, estimating damages could reach 100 trillion won (approximately $66 billion USD). A local court has intervened, granting an injunction that requires the union to maintain certain staffing levels during the strike to minimize disruptions.