Lotte's Shin Dong-bin Emphasizes AI Transition for Business Survival

Shin Dong-bin, Chairman of Lotte Group, has identified the transition to artificial intelligence (AI) as a critical survival strategy for the company. His plan includes enhancing the use of AI across management, operational platforms, and security systems, while increasing AI applications in various subsidiaries.
 
According to industry sources, Lotte Innovate held its 21st Information Strategy Seminar from June 18 to 19 at Lotte Resort Buyeo, themed "The Real Value Created by AX." The event was attended by over 160 executives, including the group’s Chief Information Officer (CIO), Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), and AI executives.
 
During the seminar, strategies for implementation and performance enhancement across subsidiaries were discussed. Key topics included the operational platforms for the AI agent era, the cloud and software-as-a-service ecosystem, innovations in intelligent technology outsourcing (ITO), and strategies for responding to security threats.
 

Previously, Lotte conducted a "CEO AI Academy" for its top executives from May 1 to June 6, with Shin participating in the training on June 5 and 6. He utilized Vibe Coding, which allows users to implement AI services through natural language commands, to develop AI services and agents. Following this, he reviewed the group's AX strategy and future directions. At the event, Shin stated, "AX is not an option but a top priority for the survival of the group," emphasizing the need to equip all employees with the skills to develop AI agents.
 
In line with this initiative, Lotte plans to provide practical training on AI agents to all employees by the end of the year and to introduce external generative AI services. The company intends to incorporate AI proficiency as a key criterion in hiring and evaluation processes.
 
Lotte is also enhancing the capabilities of its in-house AI platform, "iMember." In April, Lotte Innovate unveiled "iMember Work 4.0," which allows users to form AI agent teams that collaborate on complex tasks. The platform's functionality has been expanded to include deep research, report writing, and content creation.
 
A Lotte representative stated, "We will further advance AX by spreading AI agents and physical AI throughout the group, preparing for a future where AI works alongside humans in the field."