Son Kyungshik: "Korea and Japan Can Lead Globally Through Semiconductor and AI Cooperation"

Proposal for Permanent Operation of the Korea-Japan Exclusive Immigration Inspection Lane

Son Kyungshik, Chairman of the Korea Employers Federation, stated, "If Korea and Japan cooperate in next-generation technology sectors such as semiconductors, batteries, artificial intelligence (AI), materials, and precision machinery, they will be able to lead innovation and growth in the global market."

Kyungho Sohn, Chairman of the Korea Employers Federation (left), is speaking at the Korea Employers Federation Chairman's Meeting hosted by Koichi Mizushima, Ambassador of Japan to Korea (right), held at Lotte Hotel on the 11th. Korea Employers Federation

On December 11 at Lotte Hotel Seoul, Chairman Son made these remarks during a Korea Employers Federation executive meeting hosted by Koichi Mizushima, Ambassador of Japan to Korea, noting, "This year marks the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Korea and Japan, making it an important year to open a new chapter in Korea-Japan relations."

Since 2020, the Korea Employers Federation has been inviting the Japanese Ambassador to Korea to host business meetings in order to strengthen Korea-Japan economic cooperation and support companies expanding into Japan. This year, attendees included Chairman Son, Lee Janghan, Chairman of Chong Kun Dang, Park Jangsoo, Vice President of LX Pantos, Lee Taegil, President of Hanwha, Ko Junguk, President of Lotte Holdings, Kim Hyunki, Vice President of Kolon, and Lee Sumi, CEO of OCI Holdings. From the Japanese side, Ambassador Mizushima and Kazuyoshi Onishi, Economic Minister, were present.

Chairman Son pointed out, "Today, the international situation is more serious than ever," adding, "Major power rivalry, global supply chain restructuring, climate change, and, in addition, the issues of low birth rates, aging populations, and population decline are all common challenges that Korea and Japan must address together, both domestically and internationally."

He continued, "Especially in times like these, Korea and Japan, as close neighbors, must join forces to secure future growth engines," and emphasized, "Joint projects in semiconductors, hydrogen vehicles, and advanced technology sectors between companies of both countries are actively underway, and Japanese investment in Korea has also increased significantly."

Chairman Son added, "To strengthen future-oriented economic cooperation, it is essential to have a business environment where companies can freely invest and expand their operations," stressing that "the interest and support of both governments are crucial for the expansion and growth of Korea-Japan business cooperation."

He also requested that both governments work to ensure the 'Korea-Japan exclusive immigration inspection lane,' which operated for a month in June, becomes a permanent fixture.

Ambassador Mizushima responded, "Although there are many difficult challenges in the international economic environment surrounding both countries, working together and strengthening economic ties will be of great benefit to both sides," and added, "Korea and Japan are geographically close, share fundamental values, and have complementary relationships in various industrial fields, presenting an opportunity to fully leverage these advantages."

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