South Korean Labor Minister vows to train 10,000 AI-ready workers

South Korea is set to significantly boost its artificial intelligence workforce, with plans to train 10,000 individuals ready for immediate industry deployment. Labor Minister Kim Young-hoo announced this ambitious goal during the 14th ASEAN+3 Labor Ministers' Meeting held in Bangkok, Thailand.

The meeting, which convenes representatives from 11 ASEAN nations along with South Korea, China, and Japan, focuses on labor and employment policies. This year's theme, 'ASEAN Human Resource Development: Competency Certification for Global Recognition,' provided a platform for discussing strategies to navigate the evolving job market shaped by digital transformation and the green transition.

Minister Kim presented South Korea's 'Industrial Transformation with Labor' policy, highlighting initiatives such as monitoring AI's impact on employment and establishing a basic plan for employment safety in industrial transitions. He also detailed support for young job seekers and mid-career professionals undergoing retraining.

"Through training support utilizing the 'Naeil Baeum Card' (Next-Day Learning Card), we plan to cultivate 10,000 practical talents in the artificial intelligence field who can be immediately deployed to the field," Kim stated. He further elaborated on the online smart vocational training platform (STEP), designed to provide nationwide, time- and location-flexible education to enhance AI utilization skills across various industries like design, machinery, and electrical engineering.

The ASEAN+3 labor ministers adopted a joint declaration committing to strengthen cooperation in areas such as quality full employment, human resource development including green and digital skills, and sustainable and inclusive social protection systems. Minister Kim also held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Thailand and Japan, and the Director-General of the International Labour Organization.

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Through training support utilizing the 'Naeil Baeum Card' (Next-Day Learning Card), we plan to cultivate 10,000 practical talents in the artificial intelligence field who can be immediately deployed to the field.