South Korea’s Central Labor Committee has upheld its decision requiring POSCO, the nation’s leading steelmaker, to engage in separate collective bargaining with two of its subcontracting unions. The ruling stems from a dispute over whether the two unions – representing metalworkers and plant maintenance staff – should be considered a single negotiating entity. POSCO had argued for unified negotiations, citing operational efficiency, but the Labor Committee determined the unions’ differing work scopes and interests necessitate individual discussions. This decision follows previous rulings and appeals, ultimately affirming the initial determination. The metalworkers’ union had filed a complaint alleging unfair labor practices, arguing for independent negotiation rights. This ruling could set a precedent for similar cases involving subcontracting arrangements and union representation within large corporations. The outcome is expected to influence future labor relations at POSCO and potentially across the industry.