Workers in Asia Are Fighting for Protections as AI Threatens Jobs

Shareholders of Samsung Electronics criticize a tentative wage agreement aimed at addressing the labor-management dispute.
Hyundai Motor’s labor union approved a strike, demanding protections against the deployment of humanoid robots on factory floors.
The broader debate in Asia revolves around how AI reshapes workplaces and who should benefit from productivity gains.
In South Korea, unions at AI-benefiting technology companies demand larger bonuses and a greater share of corporate profits.
The impact of AI is prompting varied responses across Asia: South Korea favors worker participation in AI decisions; Singapore focuses on adaptation and re-skilling; the Philippines lacks union support and benefits for AI-disrupted workers.
The ongoing debate in South Korea reflects a shift in power dynamics between companies and workers, influenced by recent labor reforms and strong unions.
Singapore’s approach to AI disruption emphasizes acceptance of AI changes and economic transformation through retraining and career conversion pathways.
The Philippines, with its reliance on the BPO industry, faces challenges in protecting workers from AI disruption due to the absence of strong unions and benefits.
The global debate highlights the need for stronger labor institutions and a meaningful role for workers in shaping technological changes.

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