Chairman Chey Tae-won: "Government and National Assembly Play Key Roles in Reducing Corporate Burden"

Revealed in the 2023 New Year's Address of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry

He is speaking at the year-end press conference held on the 21st at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jung-gu, Seoul.

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Dong-hoon] Choi Tae-won, Chairman of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Chairman of SK Group), diagnosed on the 29th in his New Year's address that domestic and international economic uncertainties are high, stating, "Institutional support to reduce the burden on companies will be an important role for the government and the National Assembly."

Chairman Choi continued, "Please actively work to establish an institutional environment where our companies can compete on an equal footing with global companies," emphasizing, "Reform tasks such as labor reform, regulatory reform, and education reform should be pursued consistently and used as nourishment to restore the growth potential of the Korean economy."

Although he viewed the economic and business environment in the new year as challenging, he stressed the need to prepare for the recovery period. Chairman Choi said, "There are times when the upcoming crisis feels overwhelming, but I believe we cannot neglect the challenge toward the future," adding, "What we prepare now will clearly distinguish the difference in capabilities during the upcoming economic recovery period." He also cited the phrase from The Art of War, '以患爲利 (Ihwanwiri),' meaning 'turning adversity into opportunity,' which he mentioned in his closing speech at the SK CEO seminar held last October.

Chairman Choi urged, "Although conditions are difficult, I hope we focus our capabilities on capturing the inherent opportunities and creating blueprints, making many new success stories this year."

He also pledged efforts to restore trust in companies, strengthen communication, and seek solutions to national issues.

Chairman Choi stated, "As the economy worsens, we will not overlook the interest and care for socially vulnerable and marginalized groups who are pushed into more difficult situations," emphasizing, "Embracing those in hardship and moving together toward a bright future, contributing to solving social problems, valuing all members of society, and progressing together is the new entrepreneurial spirit required in this era."

He also called for participation and cooperation from the economic sector in this regard.

Regarding the bid for the 2030 Busan Expo, he said, "The Busan Expo is an important event that can elevate not only external economic development but also the national prestige of our country," adding, "We will strive to create a friendly atmosphere among Expo member countries and build public consensus to successfully host the Expo." Chairman Choi is currently serving as the co-chairman and private sector chairman of the Expo bidding committee.

Chairman Choi said, "Like the phrase 'There is no recession in the market of dreams,' I hope everyone dreams many good dreams in 2023, the Year of the Rabbit," and added, "I hope this year all economic actors will open their ears like rabbits, listen to each other, unite their intentions, overcome external uncertainties and crises, and prepare for the future."

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