Lee Defends Honam Semiconductor Investment, Calls Critics Out for Inciting Regionalism

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has directly entered the public debate surrounding a proposed semiconductor cluster in the Honam region, asserting that the initiative is crucial for national development and not a form of regional favoritism. His strong defense comes as the plan faces criticism from the opposition People Power Party, which has labeled it a "special favor" for the region, particularly ahead of the Democratic Party's national convention.

Lee vehemently rejected these accusations, stating, "Only those with pig eyes see only pigs." He argued that fostering a semiconductor industry ecosystem in Honam is a necessary step for balanced national growth. The president accused critics of deliberately inciting regional conflict and division for political gain, urging them to cease such " 소모적 정치투쟁" (consumptive political struggles).

The president's direct engagement, marked by seven posts on X (formerly Twitter) over the weekend, mirrors his proactive approach to other significant policy issues, such as real estate. The upcoming "3 Big Mega Projects National Announcement" is expected to detail substantial investment plans from industry giants like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. These plans reportedly include the establishment of advanced semiconductor fabrication plants (fabs) in the Gwangju and Jeonnam areas, aiming to create a robust semiconductor cluster.

Lee emphasized that this large-scale regional investment is a historic achievement deserving of praise. The announcement event, scheduled to be attended by key figures including Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong and SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, will also feature policy presentations from various ministries on semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, and physical AI. The government aims to present these as part of a broader national leap forward.