One of the world's leading semiconductor companies, SK hynix is set to pay a historic 1,870% bonus based on employees' monthly base salaries, according to proposals discussed at a labor-management meeting on January 20, 2025. The bonus includes 1,000% for performance (PS), 450% as a special reward, 300% for production incentives (PI), and 120% for settlement bonuses, totaling an unprecedented payout. If approved, bonuses are expected to be disbursed before the Lunar New Year.

Despite this record offer, SK Hynix's labor unions have pushed back, claiming the proposal falls short of expectations, given the company's record-breaking projected 2024 operating profit of ₩23.4 trillion (approximately $18.5 billion). Unions have criticized management for unilaterally deciding bonus policies and demanded fairer compensation aligned with the company's exceptional performance.

SK Hynix's growth has been fueled by surging demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM), driven by artificial intelligence (AI) applications. The company remains NVIDIA's primary HBM supplier and recently led the market with its HBM3E products, achieving higher production capacity than competitors. SK Hynix anticipates continued growth in the AI and semiconductor sectors, further solidifying its market leadership.

In response to internal disagreements, SK Hynix introduced an Employee Stock Ownership Plan allowing staff to convert up to 50% of their bonuses into company shares, with an additional 15% cash incentive for holding shares for a year. While negotiations are ongoing, SK Hynix CEO Kwak Noh-jung has reiterated the company's commitment to ensuring bonus distribution by late January.

As the bonus discussions highlight tensions, SK Hynix's record profitability and leadership in AI-driven semiconductors showcase its strength in the evolving global market.