Prime Minister Kim Min-seok has publicly criticized remarks made by Choi Tae-won, chairman of SK Group, regarding the construction of new semiconductor factories, prompting a wave of reactions from netizens.
On June 9, during the Nikkei Forum's special session in Tokyo, Choi stated, "If it cannot be done in our country, we may have to go overseas."
Choi emphasized that the demand for semiconductors continues to rise, making the construction of additional factories an unavoidable task. He added, "We will comprehensively consider where and how to build them," indicating that the decision would take into account market conditions and investment environments, suggesting that it is not a given that factories will be built solely in Korea.
In response, Prime Minister Kim shared an article about Choi's comments on his X (formerly Twitter) account on June 10, openly challenging the notion.
Kim stated, "Instead of saying 'if it cannot be done in Korea,' we should be asking 'how can we make it work in Korea?'" He stressed the need for the government and businesses to work together to find solutions.
Following the exchange, critical reactions flooded online communities.
Many netizens pointed to recent labor-related policies and the regulatory environment for businesses, arguing that "it is no wonder companies are hesitant to invest domestically" and that "the government should focus more on improving the investment climate."
One user remarked, "With demands for 'AI excess profit distribution,' 'build factories in Honam,' and threats of a general strike from Minochon if 85% of profits are not shared, there is no reason to build in Korea if labor risks are unresolved."
Another user questioned, "After asking for diplomatic favors during Trump's early presidency and then passing the yellow envelope law, how can the government suddenly ask for factories to be built in Honam?"
A different commenter also criticized, saying, "In a region that shows blind support for a party intent on destroying large corporations, how can they expect to promote factory development?"
This debate over the establishment of semiconductor factories highlights a significant clash between government industrial policy and corporate investment decisions. The upcoming meeting between President Lee Jae-myung and business leaders at the end of this month is expected to focus on semiconductor investment, corporate regulations, and labor policies.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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