A Korean Confederation of Trade Unions-affiliated labour union has been formed at Wemade ahead of a change in its largest shareholder. The union said it is preparing for collective bargaining, calling for job security, improved working conditions and the continuation of key businesses.

The Wemade branch of the Korean Federation of Chemical Textile Food Industries Trade Union said on Tuesday it has officially launched after issuing a founding declaration.

The branch said growing job insecurity among employees, ahead of a change in the largest shareholder following the sale of all shares held by Wemade Chairman Park Kwan-ho (박관호), was a key factor behind the union's formation.

The union said the company has not provided sufficient explanations about future organisational operations or employment guarantees as management uncertainty persists, including weak performance and pending issues related to WEMIX. It also raised concerns about the possibility of restructuring or business downsizing after the change in the largest shareholder.

The union also cited issues with human resources and working conditions, saying performance bonuses, wage systems and welfare benefits have been decided or changed without transparent criteria. It said it formed the union after concluding there was a need for an employee representative organisation that can convey staff views to management and negotiate.

In future collective bargaining, the branch plans to seek opposition to restructuring and layoffs linked to the change in the largest shareholder and organisational reshuffles, the maintenance of working conditions and improvements to the performance bonus payment system, prior consultations when directions for key businesses are changed, and job succession and organisational continuity for major business divisions including WEMIX.

In its founding declaration, the branch said, "We will no longer remain passive beings who entrust our lives to the company's unilateral decision-making," and added, "With organised strength, we will resolve employment insecurity and create a fair and healthy workplace."

The Chemical Textile Food union, which includes the Wemade branch, also has members at major South Korean game companies including Neople, Nexon, Smilegate, NC, Webzen and Netmarble.