Samsung Electronics and its labor union will begin mediation on May 11 and 12 to resolve a wage dispute.

The union previously scheduled an 18-day strike to begin on May 21 if negotiations fail.

Government labor authorities are facilitating the talks and pledging full support for a resolution.

Samsung shares rose 2.6% in Seoul after-hours trading following the mediation announcement.

Union leaders confirmed they will proceed with the general strike if mediation outcomes are unsatisfactory.