KDI Holds 'Future Challenges of Korean Economy' Conference... OECD Says Korea Must Address Inequality and Vulnerability

[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Son Seonhee] The Korea Development Institute (KDI), celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, will hold an international conference on the theme of ‘Future Challenges of the Korean Economy’ on the 17th.

The conference, held at 1:30 PM in the Grand Ballroom of the Four Seasons Hotel in Jongno-gu, Seoul, will proceed with expert presentations, designated discussions, and open discussions in the order of ▲Industry & Market ▲Labor & Education ▲Public & Finance ▲OECD Special Session.

Hong Nam-ki, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, said in his congratulatory remarks, "To leap forward as a leading economy, it is urgent to secure growth engines that will lead the next 50 years. While responding to structural changes, it is essential to strengthen inclusiveness toward sustainable growth." He urged, "I ask KDI to gather collective intelligence and serve as a focal point for innovation in our economy and society."

Angel Gurr?a, Secretary-General of the OECD, also delivered a congratulatory message, stating, "Korea’s response to COVID-19 has been successful, and the Korean New Deal model based on sustainability and inclusiveness focuses on strong recovery and growth." He added, "Inclusive and sustainable growth is a core goal pursued by the OECD, and I hope these values will be actively discussed."

In Session 1, Industry & Market, Nam Chang-woo, a KDI research fellow, will present on ‘Establishing a High Value-added and Leading Industrial Structure,’ and Lee Jin-guk, a research fellow, will present on ‘Realizing a Transparent, Vibrant, and Fair Market Ecosystem.’

Next, in Session 2, Labor & Education, Park Woo-ram, a KDI research fellow, will present on ‘A Labor Market Where Quality of Life and Economic Prosperity Coexist,’ and Park Yoon-soo, a professor at Sookmyung Women’s University, will present on ‘Realizing a Lifelong Learning Society.’

In Session 3, Public & Finance, Yoon Ji-woong, a professor at Kyung Hee University, will present on ‘A Smart Government for Improving Quality of Life,’ and Lee Tae-seok, a KDI research fellow, will present on ‘Building a Safe and Happy Welfare Society Together.’

Finally, in the OECD Special Session, Romina Boarini, Director of the OECD WISE Center, will analyze the paradigm shift in the Korean economy triggered by the COVID-19 crisis. Boarini pointed out that income inequality and job vulnerability have deepened due to the COVID-19 crisis, and suggested that the new economic paradigm aiming for an ‘inclusive and innovative’ nation must provide opportunities for vulnerable groups to realize their potential. She emphasized that resolving wage gaps and the concentration of low-wage jobs among female workers is particularly crucial.

The keynote speech at the conference will be delivered by Ulrik Nissen, Deputy Secretary-General of the OECD. In his speech, Nissen advised, "To transition to a new economic paradigm encompassing people and the planet, policy measures that bridge the digital divide, enhance productivity, and promote innovation must be harmonized."

Choi Jung-pyo, President of KDI, said in his opening remarks, "Through this conference, we will present three challenges and future directions: improving the quality of life for citizens, responding to the technological revolution and strengthening industrial competitiveness, and addressing demographic changes." He added, "I hope this will help overcome the difficulties our country will face in the mid to long term."

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