[Person人] The Keyword Defining Son Kyung-sik, Gyeongryun (經綸)

Son Kyung-sik, Chairman of the Korea Employers Federation, is giving a greeting at the Korea Employers Federation Chairman's meeting held at the Westin Chosun Hotel in Jung-gu, Seoul. Photo by Moon Honam munonam@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyewon] Gyeongryun (經綸).

The keyword that runs through Sohn Kyung-shik, Chairman of the Korea Employers Federation, is gyeongryun. This is the common character assessment given by those who meet Chairman Sohn up close. One person said, "Perhaps thanks to his long gyeongryun, he has a very broad and rational way of thinking," adding, "Sometimes I feel that the thinking of younger people is actually more old-fashioned." Another acquaintance said, "He has gyeongryun in economic policy and when problems arise, he persistently persuades various parties with logic to find solutions."

Born in Seoul in 1939, Chairman Sohn is now 81 years old. Having followed an elite course through Kyunggi High School and Seoul National University Law School, his career path is impressive. He first stepped into society in 1961 at Hanil Bank and was active as a 'Samsung man' until he connected with CJ Group. His connection with the Samsung family began when his sister married Lee Maeng-hee, the eldest son of the late Samsung Group Chairman Lee Byung-chul. It is said that Sohn’s father, who served as Governor of Gyeonggi Province, had a close relationship with the late chairman. Following his father, who served as CEO of Anguk Fire & Marine Insurance (now Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance) for 15 years, Sohn became CEO of Anguk Fire & Marine Insurance at the age of 38. The record as the youngest CEO in Samsung Group history still stands. After serving as Vice Chairman and CEO of Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance, Sohn moved to CJ Group in the mid-1990s and has maintained the position of Chairman and CEO for 25 years.

Before meeting Chairman Sohn in person, it was hard to believe such a biography was anything but from a biography book. Recently, when meeting Sohn in a private setting, he pleasantly shattered such prejudices. As the head of the Korea Employers Federation, he gave the impression of having a thorough understanding of issues in both the business and labor sectors, as well as sensitive management issues within CJ Group. Despite his advanced age, his sharpness was evident, and although somewhat awkward, his messages were clear and his words carried weight. That moment of doubt turned into certainty. It was like catching a glimpse of the secret behind how Sohn Kyung-shik has been able to emit the presence of the CJ Group head’s feet and mouth, or even more, for 25 years.

Chairman Sohn was not satisfied with being just a businessperson. While involved in economic organizations, he also contributed to policy planning for South Korea. Before joining the Korea Employers Federation, he served as Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry for about 10 years from 2003 to 2013. Calls from administrations of all political colors never ceased. This seems to be the result of prioritizing national interest over political colors. That is why his name is always present in key government positions such as member of the Economic and Social Development Labor-Management-Government Committee (2007), Chairman of the National Competitiveness Enhancement Committee (2011?2013), and member of the Job Committee (currently).

"The word 'intelligent' fits well. He clearly understands that the driving force of our country's economy and national development is that the market economy must function smoothly as the basic axis. He actively participates in government work and is capable of communicating with opinion leaders, playing the role of a sufficiently necessary leader," said an acquaintance of Chairman Sohn, a remark that resonates deeply.

The Korea Employers Federation, which represents the position of employer organizations, celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. Although it should be a festive day, the atmosphere is rather gloomy. This is because the playing field, tilted toward the labor side, is difficult to balance. A representative example is the ratification of the International Labour Organization (ILO) fundamental conventions. Our government is pushing legislation on three labor-related laws that include allowing dismissed and unemployed workers to join unions. The business community opposes this, saying it will overturn the labor-management landscape and make the country more confrontational and difficult for business. Chairman Sohn said, "It is regrettable. Very worrisome." Nevertheless, while acknowledging the burden that the ILO issue is a presidential pledge, he promised to persuade the government and National Assembly to implement several urgent requests from the business community. It is hoped that the business community’s urgency, combined with the gyeongryun and boldness embodied by Sohn Kyung-shik, will reach that goal as well.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.