Deputy Prime Minister Bae Kyung-hoon addressed the challenges posed by artificial intelligence during an interview with CNBC, stressing the importance of equitable wealth distribution as the country navigates labor disputes, particularly at Samsung Electronics.
Recently, a planned strike by Samsung workers was averted after government intervention, with employees seeking better bonus structures tied to the company's profits. Bae noted that such labor-management conflicts are likely to persist as AI continues to reshape industries. He pointed to Hyundai's integration of Atlas robots as an example of the concerns surrounding automation and job security.
Bae advocated for an 'AI-inclusive society' where the benefits of AI extend to all citizens, echoing sentiments from a recent proposal by presidential official Kim Yeong Beom to redistribute excess tax revenue from the AI and semiconductor sectors. This proposal stirred market reactions, although it was later clarified as a personal opinion rather than a formal policy.
On the market front, Bae acknowledged the significant stock gains of Samsung and SK Hynix, which have risen 144% and 200% year-to-date, respectively, contributing to an overall Kospi index increase of over 86% in 2026.
He expressed confidence in South Korea's potential to lead in physical AI, which encompasses AI technologies integrated into various machines and systems, emphasizing the foundational role of semiconductors and AI infrastructure in this development