Newly appointed Prime Minister Han Seong-sook pledged to assist the government in hastening its efforts for artificial intelligence (AI) transformation to secure Korea's leadership in the fast-changing AI landscape.
She commented on the government's recent declaration of three megaprojects centered on semiconductors, AI, and AI data centers to address the rising worldwide demand for AI.
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President Lee Jae Myung spearheaded the announcement, demonstrating his administration’s urgent desire to place Korea at the leading edge of the AI era.
"The government must move more quickly to ensure necessary policies are implemented in a timely manner," according to Han.
The prime minister went on to say that “we will make bolder investments in AI and advanced industries while actively pursuing regulatory reform to remove barriers to innovation."
Han vowed to make sure the benefits of AI-driven growth will “reach people's daily lives and create greater opportunities for young people.”
She also promised to ensure that “the fruits of growth spread to small and medium-sized enterprises and neighborhood businesses” for every individual to realize their potential.
“The government will serve as a strong foundation in building such a Korea” she added.
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Han is the second prime minister in the Lee administration, having previously been appointed as the minister of SMEs and startups after his role as CEO of the major internet company Naver.
She is the second female prime minister in the last 20 years, succeeding Han Myeong-sook, who was in office from 2006 to 2007. Han is now only one step away from officially assuming office, with her appointment set to be finalized once the National Assembly endorses the confirmation motion during a plenary session.
Her predecessor, Kim Min-seok, went back to the ruling Democratic Party of Korea after serving in the position for the first year of the Lee administration starting in June 2025.
The committee for the parliamentary confirmation hearing endorsed a report, deeming Han fit for the position, with the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) spearheading the endorsement following her nomination on June 7.
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The steps toward Han’s anticipated appointment occur as President Lee Jae Myung strives to elevate Korea to be one of the top three AI leaders globally, alongside the United States and China.
The plan has grown more defined since Lee presented the vision last year, featuring measures like the government's historic allocation of 9.9 trillion won ($6.3 billion) for AI this year and collaborative efforts to establish four new semiconductor facilities in southwestern Korea to satisfy rising AI demand.