Chair Hur Jin-gyu of Iljin marked the 58th anniversary of its founding by pledging to strengthen innovation and technological competitiveness and soar toward a new 100 years.
On the 22nd, in a commemorative address for the 58th anniversary, Hur said, "We are now passing through a major inflection point of a 'constant crisis,'" and noted, "The waves of protectionism demand unprecedented change, and the chasing latecomers and global economic slowdown sternly warn that the success formula of the past is no longer valid."
He added, "Now we must move beyond mere survival and leap forward as an 'Only One corporations' that no one can replace," and declared a "soaring (飛上) strategy" for the next 100 years.
As concrete strategies, Hur presented results proven by capability and metrics, proactive leadership, and securing ultra-gap technological prowess.
First, he said, "Passion yields visible results only when coupled with specific goals," and urged, "I hope you will devote all efforts to innovation so we can create the greatest results in the shortest time."
He continued, "The attitude of 'sujocheokju (隨處作主),' becoming the master wherever I stand, is more urgent than ever," and said, "We must break away from a passive stance of waiting for instructions and become leaders who define problems and present solutions on our own."
On technological competitiveness, he stressed, "We must secure unrivaled advanced technologies that can compete confidently in advanced markets," and added, "Amid the waves of the Fourth Industrial Revolution—including physical AI, semiconductors, robots, and nuclear power—let's awaken our DNA for overcoming crises."
Hur encouraged, "The process of reform and innovation is painful, but its fruits will be more valuable than anything," and said, "Let's once again tighten the reins of innovation and astonish the world."