Korean business leaders, led by the Federation of Korean Industries chair, call for strengthened public-private cooperation in AI and outline plans for institutional innovations to boost competitiveness in AI and other high-growth sectors.

They advocate a new era for Korean industry through AI and open regulatory pathways, aiming to position Korea as a leader in global norms and to sharpen competitiveness in new-growth areas.

The leaders emphasize a collaborative government-business approach to accelerate AI-driven growth and reduce regulatory hurdles as the economy reorients toward innovation and digitalization.

There is a call for more predictable local policies to ease regulatory burdens for growing firms, highlighting the importance of sustaining innovation and investment.

2026 is framed as a pivotal year to reawaken entrepreneurship and shift policy toward innovation, digitalization, and globalization to overcome structural challenges.

Business figures push for regulatory reform, labor-market flexibility, and tech-driven growth amid global protectionism and low growth.

Efforts include easing the burden on mid-sized firms by improving dialogue with government and parliament, broadening sector recognition, and creating practical collaboration hubs for nationwide development.

Policy predictability and lighter regulatory hurdles are highlighted as crucial, with AI seen as a catalyst for growth amid geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainties.

A collaborative approach between government and business is urged to accelerate AI-driven growth and competitiveness in a uncertain global landscape.

Mid-sized enterprises are framed as a central pillar of Korea’s economy, driving competitiveness through coordinated policy reform, industrial diversification, and proactive AI-driven efficiency.

SME-focused growth is emphasized, seeking to restore the growth ladder for small businesses, promote AI adoption, create a fair market, expand global SME participation, and spur regional revitalization.

The need to accelerate major investment projects and reform local fair trade laws to help chipmakers attract outside investment and raise capital, including relaxing subsidiary shareholding requirements.