During a press briefing on May 27 in Sejong, Kim noted, "Exports of semiconductors have increased by over 130%, and even excluding them, there has been about a 15% rise. I believe there is a possibility of entering the top five in exports."
Earlier this year, the government set an annual export target of $740 billion, which is a 4.3% increase from last year's record export figure of $709.3 billion. However, a recent report from the Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade projected that due to rising semiconductor prices driven by global AI demand, this year's export figure could reach $924.4 billion.
In this context, Kim remarked, "While exports are concentrated among large companies, small and medium enterprises have also seen about a 10% increase in exports, which is very encouraging. I believe there are many markets where small and medium enterprises can penetrate with consumer goods."
He added, "We are looking at China and India, and I want to emphasize that 'the world is vast, and there are many places to export.' Please look forward to the second half of the year."
Regarding the submarine bidding competition with Germany, he explained, "We have the actual Jangbogo-class submarines, while Germany is still in the design phase. Our submarine's pricing and specifications are ahead of Germany's, and there is a joint industrial cooperation package prepared by Hyundai Motor and Hanwha."
He continued, "Canada is a NATO member and an old friend, so there are some concerns. I have heard that there are discussions about building half of the 12 submarines together with Germany. However, I would like to align it with Admiral Yi Sun-sin's 12 ships."
On the recent wage agreement reached between Samsung Electronics and its labor union, Kim expressed, "I feel this opportunity could be either beneficial or detrimental for Samsung Electronics. I hope the internal members can make this a stepping stone."
He refrained from commenting on nuclear power exports and the first U.S. investment project, stating, "We are in contact with several countries regarding nuclear power, but it is still in progress, so it feels premature to discuss it. The U.S. investment project is moving in a constructive direction compared to the initial negotiations. It is difficult to set a timeline as we are analyzing commercial viability."
Regarding the manufacturing AI transition (M.AX), which he has prioritized since taking office, Kim stated, "I believe a 'Best 11' has been formed based on 11 sectors, including process areas, manufactured goods, and industrial complexes. However, currently, the only key player is semiconductors, and I plan to develop two or three more key players in the second half of the year."
He also mentioned his recent visit to Seongshim-dang, saying, "There should be many examples like Seongshim-dang utilizing M.AX. The data gathered should spread from points to lines and surfaces. While government support is necessary for the spread of AI factories, voluntary corporate utilization is also essential. Even if it is not a massive model, we can enhance competitiveness in the manufacturing sector."
Addressing concerns about labor market shocks due to M.AX, he noted, "With changes in population structure, we are approaching a situation where we cannot pass on the next generation. It is not about replacing people but maintaining competitiveness. It is time for the government to provide retraining so that young people can engage in different work."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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