Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan is scheduled to embark on a series of visits to regions beyond the Seoul metropolitan area later this week in line with government initiatives aimed at fostering equitable regional growth, according to reports.
According to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources, Kim will launch his tour in North Jeolla Province and proceed to visit various regions until the conclusion of February.
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"The government will pursue development efforts with a heightened sense of urgency, viewing 2026 as both a critical starting point and a final opportunity for regional growth," Kim says.
The initiative forms a pivotal component of an overarching national strategy designed to diminish dependence on the capital region through the restructuring of the country into five significant regional clusters, as well as three distinct self-governing provinces.
Ever since assuming the presidential office, President Lee Jae Myung has made a commitment to enhancing equitable development across different regions, affirming plans to boost financial assistance for areas beyond the central district.
The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Resources recently revealed plans for its most extensive organizational restructure in more than 10 years. This initiative aims to enhance its ability to navigate global trade uncertainties and prioritize the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and other cutting-edge industries, according to reports.
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According to the ministry, the restructuring plan, the largest of its kind since 2013, was given the green light at a Cabinet meeting for commencement of its implementation next week.
As part of the proposal, the ministry intends to establish a novel division focused on resource protection, acting as a central command center for economic and industrial security measures in response to increased uncertainties in the supply chain.
These uncertainties have arisen due to escalating tensions between the US and China concerning vital minerals. Two teams will be established to support the development of the AI industry and facilitate the AI transformation in the manufacturing sector. The ministry plans to create a new team dedicated to improving the management of trade matters with the US.
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This team will specifically focus on industry collaboration projects outlined in the bilateral trade agreement signed earlier this year. Additionally, another team will be formed to strengthen assistance for defense export initiatives. The ministry has announced its intention to enhance its efforts in fostering balanced regional development, enhancing the competitiveness of advanced industries, and simplifying regulatory processes to facilitate industrial innovation.