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๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท South Korea /Economy & Trade

PM Nominee Han Vows to Tackle Economic Crisis, Boost AI Innovation

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • Han Duck-soo, the nominee for Prime Minister, pledged to focus on resolving the "national economic emergency situation."
  • He emphasized accelerating AI-driven industrial transformation and innovation to ensure benefits reach all citizens.
  • Han also committed to listening to diverse voices, fostering parliamentary cooperation, and working towards a prosperous South Korea.

Prime Minister nominee Han Duck-soo has pledged to prioritize addressing the "national economic emergency situation" if confirmed for the role. Speaking to reporters as he arrived at his confirmation hearing preparation office, Han expressed a "heavy sense of responsibility" for being nominated during a pivotal time as the government enters its second year.

If I am given the important role of Prime Minister, I will first focus all my efforts on overcoming the current national economic emergency situation.

โ€” Han Duck-sooThe Prime Minister nominee stated his top priority if confirmed.

He stated his intention to build upon the previous year's achievements, aiming for faster and broader dissemination of tangible changes that citizens can feel. Han highlighted the need to accelerate the AI-driven industrial transformation and innovation in response to global complex crises, ensuring that the benefits of this progress translate into opportunities and growth for all South Koreans.

In the second year of the government's term, we must continue the achievements of the past year and spread tangible, visible changes that citizens can feel more quickly and widely.

โ€” Han Duck-sooHan outlined his vision for the government's second year.

Han also committed to actively listening to voices from various sectors of society to help resolve conflicts. He promised diligent communication with the National Assembly and close cooperation among government ministries, vowing to serve with humility to create a nation where everyone thrives. He also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing Prime Minister, Kim Min-seok, in laying the groundwork for democratic recovery and national normalization.

I will listen to the voices of various people from all walks of life and work to untangle the knots of conflict.

โ€” Han Duck-sooThe nominee pledged his approach to social issues and dialogue.

When questioned by reporters about selling his multiple real estate properties, Han stated he would answer thoroughly during the confirmation hearing. He also shared personal reflections, quoting from a novel about enduring challenges and acting decisively according to the times, and referencing song lyrics about boldly crossing boundaries when signals change.

I will do my best to cross the fence boldly, without sparing myself, in line with the changing signals and times.

โ€” Han Duck-sooHan used song lyrics to express his commitment to bold action.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.