Korea and ASEAN countries are expanding cooperation in vocational training, competency certification, and inclusive social security systems to respond to challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) and carbon neutrality. Korea plans to share its National Competency Standards (NCS) and employment policies, such as Employment 24, with ASEAN nations.
The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced that Minister Kim Young-hoon attended the 14th ASEAN+3 Labor Ministers' Meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, on August 27, where he introduced Korea's 'Labor-Driven Industrial Transition' policy. The ASEAN+3 Labor Ministers' Meeting is held every two years, bringing together representatives from 11 ASEAN countries along with Korea, China, and Japan to discuss regional labor issues.
In his keynote address, Minister Kim noted that digital transformation and green transition due to AI and carbon neutrality could impact youth, workers in high-carbon industries, and local economies. He explained that the government is working on establishing a 'Basic Plan for Employment Stability in Industrial Transition' to assess the employment effects of industrial changes and strengthen support for vocational training, lifelong learning, and mid-career job transitions.
He also presented plans for nurturing AI talent, stating that through the National Tomorrow Learning Card, Korea aims to train 10,000 AI professionals who can be immediately deployed in the field. The online Smart Employment Training Platform (STEP) will enhance AI skills among workers in various industries, including design, machinery, and electrical sectors.
Minister Kim expressed his intention to share over 1,100 NCS competencies, which systematize the knowledge, skills, and qualities required for job performance, along with Employment 24, which integrates vocational training, job matching, and career certification with ASEAN countries. This initiative aims to officially certify competencies acquired through vocational training to facilitate actual employment.
The member countries adopted a joint declaration to strengthen cooperation in human resource development, including quality full employment and green and digital technologies, as well as sustainable and inclusive social security systems. The declaration also acknowledged Korea's ongoing contributions in vocational training, labor market information, and the future of work.
Minister Kim stated, "We will continue to strengthen close ties with ASEAN and actively support the development and implementation of inclusive employment policies in ASEAN countries, recognizing the need for enhanced cooperation in the labor sector."
Additionally, Minister Kim held separate talks with Thailand's Labor Minister, Jullapan Amornwiwat, to discuss employment and vocational training policies related to AI and cooperation on employment permit systems. He also discussed social dialogue for extending retirement age with Japan's Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare, Kenichiro Ueno, and key labor issues and Korea-ILO cooperation with Gilbert Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO).
* This article has been translated by AI.
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