Prime Minister Han Seong-sook, upon leaving the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, conveyed her gratitude to staff and said she would continue to play a role in advancing startups and the startup and small and midsize venture business ecosystem.
On the 1st, Han sent a message titled "To colleagues at the Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) who worked together" via the ministry's internal email system, expressing thanks to the staff with whom she worked over the past year.
Han said, "A year may be short if short, but for me it was heavier and more intense than ever," adding, "It was a great honor to think, run, and work together with you for small business owners and small and midsize venture businesses, the roots of our economy."
Han continued, "We set a record for the largest-ever venture fund formation, successfully held the consumption-boosting event 'Korea Grand Festa,' launched the 'Whistleblower Center to Eradicate Technology Theft,' and pushed 'Startup for All,' allowing us to confirm the resilience of SMEs and small business owners despite difficult external conditions," adding, "Together with you, we were able to create new attempts and changes."
Han said there are still tasks to resolve. She said, "There are many tasks we must tackle together, including the AI great transformation (AX), strengthening growth foundations for regional SMEs, and building a social safety net for small business owners," adding, "It is regretful and I am sorry that we were not able to sufficiently address shortcomings in the operation of 'Startup for All.'"
Han also emphasized, "Without stopping here, I will mobilize every capability and means available to provide more opportunities and experiences to those challenging themselves to start businesses and to help build a startup ecosystem where people can rise again even after failure."
Lastly, Han said, "The time spent thinking and learning together with you will be an important milestone for the path I will walk," adding, "Although we may not be together in the same place, I believe your challenge for small business owners and small and midsize venture businesses will continue." She added, "Wherever I am, I will always cheer you on."