Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon emphasized the need for continuous innovation and the creation of quality jobs to ensure that the growth of the semiconductor industry benefits everyone. He made these remarks during a meeting with representatives from the Korea Semiconductor Industry Association and semiconductor companies at SWITCH22 in Yeouido, Seoul.
The meeting, which also included officials from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, addressed the increasing importance of securing research and development (R&D) capabilities amid fierce competition in the semiconductor sector. Industry representatives have suggested that flexible working hours are essential for enhancing technological development competitiveness.
Minister Kim stated, "The warmth of semiconductor growth should reach all of South Korea," stressing that it should provide opportunities for over 200,000 workers in the semiconductor industry and young job seekers alike. He noted that for the benefits of semiconductor growth to spread across all industries, continuous innovation and the creation of quality jobs are prerequisites.
He acknowledged that sustainable innovation is possible only in good jobs and recognized the industry's challenge of ensuring that workers can thrive in a healthy environment while receiving fair compensation. Kim explained that the meeting was designed to find solutions to these concerns in collaboration with the government.
He also highlighted the need for a detailed examination of the current working hours system, particularly how it affects R&D tasks and the challenges faced in utilizing existing regulations, to identify effective measures.
Kim added, "The results of R&D stem from healthy labor, so we must also discuss ways for talented individuals to work freely and creatively in a healthy environment."
The government is conducting a 'one-point social dialogue' related to the Super Wide Area Special Zone Act, involving labor and management as well as relevant ministries. This dialogue aims to discuss various agendas that can contribute to strengthening the competitiveness of advanced industries and creating a healthy and sustainable labor environment.
The government plans to incorporate the feedback gathered from the semiconductor R&D field during this meeting into the ongoing social dialogue discussions.
Minister Kim concluded, "The government will listen not only to the industry but also to the voices of semiconductor workers. We will fully support discussions to ensure that reasonable solutions can be developed based on diverse opinions from the field."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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