South Korea Wins Trade Dispute With India, Samsung Plans Big Hiring Drive

South Korea has won a tariff dispute with India at the World Customs Organization (WCO) over radio units (RUs) used in mobile base stations.

The case involved about 800 billion won ($573 million) in tariffs on RUs exported by Samsung Electronics to India. The WCO ruled that the devices should be treated as “parts,” which are tariff-free, not as “telecom equipment” that faces a 20 percent duty.

Although WCO rulings are not legally binding, South Korea’s finance ministry said the decision reflects international support for its position and could help local companies in talks with Indian tax officials.

Separately, South Korea’s top companies announced major hiring plans. Samsung Group said it will employ 60,000 people over the next five years, focusing on semiconductors, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence. The group’s affiliates, including Samsung Electronics, Samsung C&T, and Samsung Biologics, are already recruiting. Samsung will also continue internships alongside entry-level hiring, a practice it has followed since 1957.

SK Group said it will add 4,000 more jobs by year-end, after hiring the same number earlier this year, mainly in AI and digital transformation. Hyundai Motor Group plans to hire 7,200 workers in 2025 and raise that number to 10,000 in 2026 as part of its push into global mobility solutions.