Korean Air and Asiana Airlines have now become a true family under the roof of Hanjin Group. As we have lived differently, we need a process of effort and overcoming together to align with each other. I believe we will be a reliable family and partner walking together with our sights set on the same goal.
Cho Won-tae, chairman of Hanjin Group, noted in a piece titled "A message to employees" posted on the Hanjin Group website on the 16th. This message comes four days after Asiana Airlines was integrated as a subsidiary of Korean Air on the 12th. The chairman's message was also published on the employee sites of Korean Air and Jin Air, among other existing group companies.
The chairman emphasized, "The time remaining until the launch of the integrated airline is not very long,” adding, "The pace of change will be faster than expected, so we must reduce uncertainty through rapid decision-making and judgment.” He implied that there may be some challenges in the future chemical integration process, but they are committed to working toward smooth resolutions and overcoming them.
He explained, "The fact that Korean Air and Asiana Airlines, which are major pillars of the Korean aviation industry, are becoming one company holds tremendous significance. We have set a lofty goal of survival and sustainable development for the Korean aviation industry."
He urged, "The future of the Korean aviation industry depends on each of your actions, so please work with a sense of heavy responsibility as individuals accountable for the industry's direction."
He also stressed that this is a time when greater efforts must be made for safety. The chairman asserted, "The fact that safety is the foundation of an airline is an unchanging value, and if safety is not guaranteed, there is no reason for integration,” and added, "I ask that each of you maintain a thorough safety awareness so that we can become a globally top-tier airline."
He also mentioned that to stand as the world’s top airline, the integrated airline must sometimes humbly accept harsh criticism. He said, "I believe in your expertise, know-how, and highest-level capabilities that you have accumulated over a long time leading the Korean aviation industry together," and promised, "I will feel that responsibility heavily and lead by example. As a strong supporter, I will help each of you perform to the best of your abilities in your roles."