Minister Kim Younghoon Proposes Expanded Labor Cooperation in AI Era to ILO Director-General

On May 21, Kim Younghoon, Minister of Employment and Labor, met with Gilbert Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), to discuss ways to strengthen international cooperation for a "human-centered AI transformation."

According to the Ministry of Employment and Labor, this meeting marked Director-General Houngbo's first visit to the Ministry since his inauguration in October 2022. Both sides held extensive discussions on human-centered AI policy directions and the protection of labor rights in the era of AI and digital transformation, the expansion of Korea-ILO cooperation, and measures to strengthen Korea's role within the ILO.

Minister Kim stated, "The Korean government has promoted industrial transformation and technological innovation based on its digital innovation capabilities and manufacturing and ICT infrastructure. The Lee Jaemyung administration has made the protection of labor rights for all workers a key national agenda and is working to create quality jobs and enhance inclusiveness in the labor market."

He continued, "Korea will actively contribute to international discussions on the responsible use of AI and labor market transition. I hope that, in cooperation with the ILO, we will be able to present to the international community a human-centered AI transformation model that harmonizes technological innovation with the protection of labor rights."

Kim Young-hoon, Minister of Employment and Labor, attended the Emergency Economic Ministers' Meeting held at the Government Seoul Office in Jongno-gu, Seoul on the 11th, and made remarks regarding retirement pensions. 2026.3.11 Photo by Cho Yongjun

Director-General Houngbo referenced his experience attending the Global AI Hub Vision Declaration Ceremony held that day and expressed his appreciation for Korea's proposal for a global AI initiative. He also emphasized the need for international cooperation to create quality jobs and ensure a human-centered transition in the age of AI.

In response, Minister Kim requested active interest and cooperation from the ILO in the operation of the Global AI Hub, which is supported by Korea and involves the participation of international organizations.

Director-General Houngbo is scheduled to continue his visit to Korea until May 22, including meetings with the President, representatives of labor and management, and a visit to the Seoul Employment Center. In particular, at the Seoul Employment Center, he plans to directly experience digital-based employment services such as AI-powered administrative innovations in employment and labor and AI interviews.

He stated, "Korea's employment and labor administration model utilizing AI is an excellent policy case that can be applied to developing countries. I hope Korea's experience and capabilities will be shared with the international community."

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