Han Seong-sook, the nominee for Prime Minister, pledged on June 25 to focus solely on delivering results for the happiness of the people.
During her confirmation hearing at the National Assembly, Han stated, "I will do my utmost to lead a bold transition in artificial intelligence (AI) to transform the economic structure, support the growth of future generations, and create a warm safety net for the socially vulnerable."
A former CEO of Naver, Han emphasized her extensive experience in technological innovation, saying, "I have lived at the forefront of technology for a long time and wish to apply the insights and philosophy I have gained over 30 years to national governance."
She added, "The benefits accrued from the AI transition and export boom should be reinvested into next-generation advanced industries, future core technologies, and the creation of an entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem," and promised to do her best to reverse the potential growth rate curve.
Han also stressed the importance of providing opportunities for future generations, stating, "It is the fundamental duty of the state to lay down the ladder of opportunity for them," and committed to connecting the fruits of the transition to investments in social safety nets for small and medium-sized enterprises, small business owners, local economies, and workers.
She praised her predecessor, Kim Min-seok, for laying the groundwork for national normalization and the restoration of democracy over the past year, expressing her respect for his efforts.
Han acknowledged that many national tasks cannot be solved solely by the government, promising to communicate closely with the National Assembly and to serve as a bridge for cooperation across party lines.
Kim Seon-kyo, a member of the ruling People Power Party, criticized Han's decision to sell her properties after her nomination, questioning her sincerity by asking, "Do you think the public will believe in your authenticity?"
In response to allegations that she illegally expanded her residence in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, Han explained, "It took a long time to negotiate with the district office, and I sincerely apologize for the delay in the demolition."
Regarding her past ownership of multiple properties, she expressed regret for not meeting public expectations, noting that she previously owned four properties, including an officetel, but has recently sold three.
Han also addressed a data breach incident that occurred during the 'Everyone's Startup' project she led as Minister of SMEs and Startups, saying, "As the responsible minister, I apologize once again and will ensure that we address any issues identified in the investigations by the National Intelligence Service and the Personal Information Protection Commission."
During the hearing, a heated debate arose regarding Han's views on national security. When asked by Kim whether the Korean War was an invasion from the North, Han initially responded, "Of course, it was an invasion from the North," but quickly corrected herself to say, "I apologize. It was an invasion from the South. I was nervous."
In response, Kim Hee-jung, another member of the People Power Party, pressed Han on her understanding of the concept of the primary enemy, stating, "If you are confirmed as Prime Minister, you will be responsible for national defense, and it seems you cannot distinguish between the general concept of an enemy and the primary enemy concept."
Park Sun-won, a member of the Democratic Party, countered, saying, "The Prime Minister nominee is not the nominee for Minister of National Defense," and added that it is inappropriate to joke about the primary enemy concept with someone who may hold talks as Prime Minister if inter-Korean relations improve.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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