As the new year of 2025 approaches, leaders from the nation's four major conglomerates gathered in one place.
The Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry held the '2025 New Year assembly of the economic sector' on the 3rd at the international conference hall of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jung-gu, Seoul, with over 600 participants, including businessmen, government officials, diplomatic envoys, and heads of economic organizations.
The New Year assembly of the economic sector is the largest New Year event in the economic sector, bringing together figures from various sectors such as politics, government, and labor to exchange greetings and blessings. It started in 1962 and has been held every year except for one time in 1973, marking the 63rd this year.
Chairman Choi Tae-won said in his opening remarks, 'The greatest fear in the economy is uncertainty,' and 'the help of the government and political leaders is desperately needed. I earnestly ask that you gather your strength for the prompt stabilization of national affairs.'
Chairman Choi said, 'Amid the warning signs of the new normal of low growth, the paradigm shift in industry brought by artificial intelligence and changes in the global trade environment have become faster and harder to predict,' adding, 'This is a time that requires the courage and determination to overhaul everything and make new changes.'
He emphasized, 'In addition to fundamental improvements throughout management, I will solidify the foundation for future growth through disruptive innovation,' stating, 'I will also put more effort into the corporate social responsibility of corporations.'
This event, held during the national mourning period, began with a moment of silence for the victims of the Jeju Air passenger plane disaster, taking place in a solemn atmosphere.
Chairman Choi expressed condolences, stating, 'I extend my deep sympathies and condolences to the victims of the passenger plane accident and their bereaved families,' adding, 'I also thank the dedication and efforts of firefighters, police officers, and medical personnel, and the economic sector will also spare no effort and support for realizing a safe society.'
The event was attended by Chairman Choi and Ryu Jin, Chairman of the Korea Economic Association, Yoon Jin-sik, Chairman of the Korea International Trade Association, Son Kyung-sik, Chairman of the Korea Enterprises Federation, and Choi Jin-sik, Chairman of the Federation of Medium-sized Businesses, among other heads of major economic organizations in the country.
Among the business attendees were Lee Jae-yong, Chairman of Samsung Electronics; Chung Eui-sun, Chairman of Hyundai Motor Group; Koo Kwang-mo, Chairman of LG Group; Kim Dong-kwan, Vice Chairman of Hanwha; Jeong Ki-seon, Vice Chairman of HD Hyundai; Heo Tae-soo, Chairman of GS Group; Chung Yong-jin, Chairman of Shinsegae Group; Jang In-hwa, Chairman of POSCO; Kim Young-seob, CEO of KT; and Cho Won-tae, Chairman of Hanjin Group.
From the government, Cha Sang-mok, acting Prime Minister and Minister of Strategy and Finance; Ahn Duk-geun, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy; Cho Tae-yeol, Minister of Foreign Affairs; and Kim Moon-soo, Minister of Employment and Labor attended. In the political sphere, Kwon Seong-dong, floor leader of the People Power Party; Park Chan-dae, floor leader of the Democratic Party; Kim Seon-min, acting leader of the Justice Reform Party; and Cheon Ha-ram, floor leader of the Reform Party were present.