Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon to Discuss AI and Labor Solutions at ILO Conference Minister of Employment and Labor Kim Young-hoon will address global labor standards at the International Labour Organization (ILO) conference, focusing on the theme of "people-centered artificial intelligence (AI) transition." He plans to lead an unprecedented delegation that includes representatives from the National Assembly, the Economic, Social and Labor Council, and labor and management to share South Korea's experiences in labor policy and social dialogue in the AI era.According to the Ministry of Employment and Labor, Minister Kim will attend the 114th ILO Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, from June 8 to 10 as the chief government representative.The ILO Conference is the highest decision-making body of the organization, involving representatives from 187 member countries, including government, labor, and employer representatives, to discuss international labor standards and key labor issues. This year's conference will focus on the impact of AI on the labor market and the creation of quality jobs.In his speech on June 10, Minister Kim will outline the South Korean government's labor policy direction under the theme of "people-centered AI transition." He will emphasize the importance of maintaining human dignity and the value of labor amid rapid advancements in AI technology and changes in industrial structure, while also discussing the protection of workers' rights, strengthening social safety nets, and policies for industrial transition based on social dialogue.Notably, this conference will see participation from the National Assembly and social dialogue organizations. Lawmakers Lee Hak-young, Kim Wi-sang, Kim Joo-young, and Kim Hyung-dong, along with Kim Ji-hyung from the Economic, Social and Labor Council, will share South Korea's interest in global labor issues and experiences in social dialogue regarding AI and industrial transition.During the conference, Minister Kim will also meet with ILO Director-General Gilbert Houngbo to discuss ways to enhance cooperation between South Korea and the ILO. This meeting is expected to further detail discussions held during Houngbo's visit to South Korea last month regarding sharing employment and labor policy experiences and cooperation in the AI sector.Additionally, Minister Kim will present South Korea's ongoing cooperation projects in the employment and labor sector aimed at developing countries. The ministry plans to host a "Korea-ILO Cooperation Project Partnership Reception" during the conference to share project outcomes with delegations from Cambodia, Vietnam, Mongolia, and Paraguay. This initiative supports improvements in vocational training, youth employment, industrial safety, and social economy, with an investment of 16.6 billion won from 2024 to 2026.Minister Kim will also engage in labor diplomacy with major European countries. He is invited by the French government to attend a G7 labor ministers' reception and plans to meet with the Dutch Minister of Social Affairs and Employment and the Spanish Minister of Labor and Social Economy to discuss responses to AI industrial transition, social dialogue, and labor market changes.Following the conference, a delegation including members of the National Assembly, the Economic, Social and Labor Council, the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, and the Korea Employers Federation will visit Germany. The delegation will examine how Germany has managed conflicts through labor-management-government dialogue during the AI and digital transition and will present South Korea's "Labor-Inclusive Industrial Transition" policy.A ministry official stated, "As the impact of AI and digital transition on the labor market grows, this will be an opportunity to strengthen international cooperation and share South Korea's policy experiences. We plan to actively promote the importance of people-centered principles and social dialogue during the industrial transition process."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-07 12:03:00

Jang Dong-hyuk Calls for Meeting with President Lee on Election Issues Jang Dong-hyuk, the leader of the People Power Party, publicly proposed a meeting with President Lee Jae-myung on June 7, stating, "Anytime today or in any format would be acceptable." The meeting aims to convey citizens' concerns regarding the ballot shortage during the June 3 local elections and to seek a responsible response from the president. During a press conference at the National Assembly, Jang emphasized the need for the government to provide a satisfactory answer to the youth protecting Olympic Park, demanding an immediate response from President Lee. He criticized President Lee and the Democratic Party for ignoring the growing calls for by-elections across the country. Referring to the gatherings at Olympic Park as a "well-organized civic resistance movement," Jang warned, "If anyone tries to silence the voices of the citizens and trample on legitimate resistance, they will face the judgment of the people." Additionally, Jang urged the ruling party to initiate a national investigation and special prosecution aimed at reforming the National Election Commission and the Public Election Act. He stressed the importance of the National Assembly fulfilling its duty to clarify the situation and hold responsible parties accountable. However, he noted that in the current climate where citizens are demanding by-elections, investigations and special prosecutions alone are not ultimate solutions. He emphasized the need for sufficient and responsible measures to calm public anger and allow citizens to return to their daily lives. Jang stated, "We cannot delay the public demand for reform of the Election Commission and the electoral system. If we dismantled a functioning prosecution, we cannot leave the far more serious Election Commission untouched." He also argued for the elimination of early voting, suggesting that dismissing claims of electoral fraud is not enough; rather, the roots of such claims must be addressed. He proposed that abolishing early voting and extending the voting period to three days could be potential solutions, clarifying that the goal is not to restrict voting rights but to enhance the process while eliminating controversy.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-07 11:51:00

Agriculture Ministry Awards 45 Million Won to 11 Officials for Outstanding Achievements On June 7, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced that it has awarded a total of 45 million won to 11 officials, including Jeon Han-young, the Director of Rural Policy, for their exceptional achievements.According to the ministry, Minister Song Mi-ryong presented special awards and commendations to employees who delivered outstanding results that the public can feel during a ceremony held at the Government Sejong City Complex on June 5.This award follows President Lee Jae-myung's directive at a Cabinet meeting last year to ensure that civil servants who achieve exceptional results receive significant rewards. The ministry established a plan for special performance awards in February, incorporating both internal recommendations and public nominations through its website for achievements that resonate with citizens.The first round of special performance awards this year considered a total of 17 nominations for exceptional achievements from the first quarter of the year since the new government took office. A rigorous evaluation process involved both internal and external experts, as well as a public evaluation panel, with a strong emphasis on results from an 'online perception evaluation' where citizens participated directly. Ultimately, 11 individuals were selected, including one at the director level, five at the section chief level, and five at the assistant level.The reform of the wholesale market distribution structure was highlighted as the most significant achievement. The ministry awarded 6 million won to Kim Jun-hyun, a senior official, for his contributions to enhancing the public functions of the wholesale market, such as stabilizing price volatility and supporting producers. Additionally, 4 million won was awarded to Song Tae-hung, an assistant official, for establishing a competitive framework among wholesale corporations to protect the interests of producers and consumers.Another notable achievement was the early consumption of some new grains through a grain loan system, which was recognized for alleviating supply burdens during the harvest season and contributing to stable supply management. Jeong Jeong-hee, a senior official, and Park Jeong-gon, an assistant official, received 5.5 million won and 4.5 million won, respectively, for their roles in interpreting relevant laws to create a new rice supply stabilization strategy.Policy promotion was also cited as a key achievement. Jeon Han-young, recognized for maintaining the highest number of subscribers on the central government's YouTube channel through innovative promotional planning, received 5 million won. The ministry praised his passionate efforts in communication, stating that he opened new horizons for policy engagement.The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs plans to regularly award special performances on a quarterly basis to its headquarters and affiliated institutions, while also providing ad-hoc awards for exceptional achievements to foster a culture of innovative performance across the public sector.Minister Song Mi-ryong stated, "Civil servants who create exceptional results must receive corresponding rewards," adding, "We will continue to generate innovative policy outcomes that citizens can feel through fair evaluations and significant rewards."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-07 11:45:00

Can North Chungcheong Province Succeed as a Startup Hub in the AI Era? "Governor, you stated your intention to make North Chungcheong Province a startup hub. In ten years, should it be remembered as a region producing semiconductors and biopharmaceuticals, or as the area that birthed the most AI entrepreneurs in South Korea?" North Chungcheong Province has always been at the center of South Korea. Located in the heart of the country, it serves as a transportation hub connecting the capital region with the Yeongnam and Honam areas. With the growth of Osong's biopharmaceutical sector, Ochang's semiconductor industry, and advanced industries in Chungju, it has played a crucial role in the nation's manufacturing sector. However, North Chungcheong faces another dilemma. While industries are growing, young people are leaving, and although factories are increasing, the region's future remains uncertain. Newly elected Governor Shin Yong-han has directly addressed this issue. He emphasized integration, harmony, livelihood, and jobs, presenting 'Startup Hub North Chungcheong' as the core vision of his administration. This declaration marks a shift from an era of creating industrial complexes to one focused on building a startup ecosystem. North Chungcheong now stands at a crossroads: will it remain an industrial center, or leap forward as a hub of entrepreneurial innovation in the AI era? The startup hub is North Chungcheong's survival strategy. The biggest crisis facing local governments in South Korea is population decline. However, population decline is merely a symptom, not the root cause. Young people leave due to a lack of job opportunities, and the absence of new businesses is the reason for this job scarcity. The essence of regional extinction lies in the lack of entrepreneurship. This is why Governor Shin emphasized the startup hub during his campaign. In a post-election interview, he stated that he would create an environment where talented individuals in North Chungcheong no longer have to leave for the capital region but can start businesses, take risks, and grow locally. He also promised to establish a 20 billion won investment fund and a system that allows failed entrepreneurs to try again. This aspect should not be viewed merely as an economic pledge. Historically, local governments have competed to attract businesses, measuring success by the number of industrial complexes and factories established. However, in the AI era, the rules of competition are changing entirely. It is no longer about factories but about people; not buildings, but ideas; and not budgets, but ecosystems that define competitiveness. Silicon Valley became the center of global innovation not because of its large factories, but due to the presence of Stanford University, entrepreneurs, investors, and a culture that accepts failure. Similarly, Shenzhen in China, once a manufacturing city, has now become a symbol of entrepreneurship and innovation. Ultimately, future regional competitiveness will likely be determined by how many businesses are created rather than how many are attracted. In this context, Governor Shin's vision for a startup hub represents both a strategic and survival plan for North Chungcheong. It signifies a shift from a factory-centered economy to one focused on entrepreneurship. Can AI startups thrive in a land known for semiconductors and biopharmaceuticals? North Chungcheong's greatest strength lies in its existing foundation for future industries. Osong is home to biopharmaceuticals, Ochang hosts semiconductor production, and Chungju and Jincheon are developing the secondary battery industry. Cheongju Airport is evolving into a central airport for the region, and the Gangho Axis is positioning North Chungcheong as a new national growth axis. However, the challenge is that these assets have yet to be interconnected into a single ecosystem. Industries grow independently, universities operate separately, research institutes function in isolation, and entrepreneurship remains in a different realm. In the AI era, this fragmentation becomes a significant weakness. Today, most innovative companies that drive the world emerge at the intersection of different industries. New value is created when AI meets biopharmaceuticals, semiconductors connect with software, and manufacturing integrates with data. North Chungcheong possesses this potential. If biopharmaceutical companies in Osong connect with semiconductor firms in Ochang, if local university research leads to startups, and if investment capital links with regional startups, North Chungcheong can evolve from a mere industrial base into an innovation hub. In the AI era, competitiveness no longer stems from production capacity but from the ability to connect. Who can connect more talent? Who can link more technologies? Who can unite more ideas? These factors will determine the future. North Chungcheong is home to 19 universities, graduating numerous young people each year. However, many leave for the capital region. The issue of talent outflow that Governor Shin highlighted is part of this broader context. The future of North Chungcheong will likely be determined not by the number of semiconductor factories but by the number of young people who remain in the region. The success of the startup hub also hinges on this. Many view Daejeon or Sejong as North Chungcheong's competitors. Daejeon is a center for research and development, while Sejong serves as the administrative capital. However, competition in the AI era does not operate in such a manner. North Chungcheong's true competitors are cities with innovative ecosystems. In this regard, Austin in the U.S., Tel Aviv in Israel, and Shenzhen in China represent North Chungcheong's real competition. The commonality among these cities is that entrepreneurship is at the heart of their local economies. Governor Shin, who has experience as a CEO and venture investment expert, stated during his campaign announcement, "We need a serving manager, not a ruling administrator." This statement reflects a significant shift from an administrative-centered governance to an economy-centered governance. In the past, local governments focused on budget allocation. Moving forward, their role will be to nurture entrepreneurs, connect investors, and build innovative ecosystems. In the AI era, local governments must also become platforms. A platform where entrepreneurs gather, investors converge, and universities connect with businesses. If North Chungcheong succeeds as a startup hub, it will not only transform itself but could also redefine the model for regional development across South Korea. This transition from creating industrial complexes to fostering startup ecosystems is crucial for the success of Governor Shin's administration. Ultimately, what matters more than how much budget has been secured is how many young people remain in North Chungcheong. More significant than the number of businesses attracted is how many new enterprises are born. More important than the number of buildings constructed is how many new entrepreneurs emerge. Governor Shin expressed his desire to be evaluated based on results. Therefore, in four years, the questions North Chungcheong residents should ask are clear. How many AI startups has North Chungcheong created? How many young people have been retained? How many future jobs have been generated? If these questions can be answered, North Chungcheong could become South Korea's first true startup hub. SWOT Analysis: Strength: North Chungcheong is one of the few regions with a biopharmaceutical cluster in Osong, a semiconductor industrial complex in Ochang, and a foundation for the secondary battery industry. It also has transportation infrastructure like Cheongju Airport and the Gangho Axis. Additionally, Governor Shin's clear vision for a startup hub is a significant advantage.Weakness: The scale of the startup ecosystem is small compared to the capital region, and the venture investment market is limited. There is a continuous outflow of talented individuals to the capital region, and concerns about a lack of experience in regional administration persist.Opportunity: The AI revolution presents new opportunities for North Chungcheong. By combining the semiconductor, biopharmaceutical, and secondary battery industries with AI, a new startup ecosystem can be established. The development of the Gangho Axis and policies for balanced regional development can also serve as growth drivers.Threat: The concentration of resources in the capital region remains strong. Competition with Daejeon and Sejong is intense. If the startup hub remains a mere support initiative and fails to build an ecosystem, achieving results will be challenging. ABC asks Governor Shin Yong-han.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-07 11:36:00

Ruling Party Criticizes Opposition's Handling of Election Management Issues Kang Jun-hyun, the chief spokesperson for the Democratic Party, criticized Jang Dong-hyuk of the People Power Party on June 7 for politicizing the Election Commission's management of ballots, urging him to stop the political theatrics aimed at gaining political leverage. During a press briefing at the National Assembly, Kang noted, "There is a growing sentiment within the People Power Party to blame all causes and responsibilities on President Lee Jae-myung." He expressed concern over the party's tendency to obscure its core issues and engage in relentless attacks, stating, "The fundamental problem lies in the poor election management caused by a shortage of ballots." Kang emphasized that while the Election Commission is an independent body under the Constitution, the government and ruling party have not shied away from addressing the issues. He added, "The Democratic Party has committed to all accountability measures, including a national investigation, and we are also considering reforming the Election Commission." He further pointed out, "President Lee has also declared a firm commitment to holding the Election Commission accountable," and criticized the People Power Party for solely blaming the president while ignoring the real issues at hand. Kang concluded by stating, "One of the significant messages from this election is a warning to the People Power Party, and I hope they take it to heart. If they wish to call for a national investigation or a special prosecutor, they must first cooperate in the formation of the National Assembly's second half of the term." 2026-06-07 11:36:00

Conflict Erupts in Democratic Party Over Leadership Issues and Election Results The Democratic Party achieved a majority victory in the June 3 local elections and by-elections, emphasizing issues like the impeachment of the president. However, the party lost control of the capital city, Seoul, and suffered defeats in four by-elections, leading to claims of a "half-hearted victory." This has intensified factional conflicts as the party prepares for its upcoming leadership contest. According to political sources on June 7, some party members are criticizing the leadership of Jung Cheong-rae, while others argue that the impact of the special prosecutor law pushed by pro-Lee Jae-myung factions and the president's strong real estate regulations played significant roles in the election outcomes. Kim Yong, a former deputy head of the Democratic Research Institute and a close aide to President Lee, expressed his dismay on Facebook on June 6, stating, "I was left speechless watching the local election results unfold. Jung's perception that this election was a nationwide victory for the Democratic Party, while the loss in Seoul is painful, reflects a disconnect from public sentiment." He added, "Now is not the time to celebrate a victory with a tally of 12 to 4. The heavy responsibility for strategic failures and absence must be shouldered by the party leadership, including the party leader." On the same day, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok addressed the KBC '2026 New Honam Forum' in Gwangju, stating, "Some view the election results as a victory, while others see them as insufficient. We must transform the tension following the election into an opportunity for innovation by firmly grasping two clear paths forward." However, some lawmakers believe it is unfair to place the blame for the loss in Seoul solely on Jung. They argue that the public's anger over real estate issues and the backlash from the special prosecutor law, which granted authority to dismiss charges, cannot be overlooked. During the election period, President Lee demonstrated a strong commitment to real estate regulations and pushed for a national investigation into alleged election manipulation led by pro-Lee factions. Following the introduction of the special prosecutor law related to incidents involving President Lee, the opposition party, People Power Party, formed a coalition to resist what they termed the "disregard for the public's judgment." Additionally, there have been criticisms that the government and ruling party politicized the controversy surrounding the May 18 Tank Day. People Power Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk countered during the campaign by promoting the idea of "freedom for a cup of coffee." In response, Senior Spokesperson Kang Jun-hyun held a press conference, stating, "There may be differing opinions, and we will establish an evaluation committee that includes internal and external experts to conduct a thorough analysis." Meanwhile, some analysts interpret the current factional competition within the Democratic Party as intensifying ahead of the August party convention. Jung is reportedly seeking re-election, while Prime Minister Kim is expected to resign from his position to pursue party leadership. Former party leader Song Young-gil, who recently re-entered the National Assembly through the by-elections, is also mentioned as a potential candidate for party leader. 2026-06-07 11:36:00

Woori Bank Hosts AI-Driven Financial Consumer Protection Idea Contest Woori Bank is collaborating with young talent to develop financial consumer protection solutions using artificial intelligence (AI).On June 5, Woori Bank held the 'AI-Financial Consumer Protection Idea Contest' in partnership with students from the Samsung Software-AI Academy (SSAFY).The contest aimed to generate practical ideas that utilize AI technology to address issues in financial consumer protection. Participants proposed various solutions focused on improving financial accessibility for vulnerable groups and preventing new forms of financial fraud amid the rapid digitalization of finance.A total of 116 teams entered the preliminary round, with seven teams advancing to the finals. The finalists presented AI applications in four areas: protecting the rights of vulnerable groups, preventing mis-selling, avoiding complaints, and preventing financial fraud.The grand prize was awarded to the 'Woori Guard' team for their proposal of an AI-based pre-designated protection system for individuals with dementia. This solution was highly regarded for its potential to safeguard consumer rights even in situations of cognitive decline.The excellence award went to the 'Garados' team, which suggested an AI safety net that protects financial transactions for Woori WON mobile subscribers, covering everything from calls and texts to transfers. The 'Haejuri Fan Club' team received the merit award for their proposal of a customized financial support service called 'Woori On Fit AI,' which suggests necessary financial tasks and helps prevent unfavorable choices.Following the finals, additional programs were held for participants, including a visit to the bank's museum and a special lecture on consumer protection.A Woori Bank official stated, "We have confirmed that the ideas from young people can significantly contribute to protecting the rights of financial consumers through AI technology. We will support the implementation of these proposals to create a more convenient financial environment."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-07 11:24:00

U.S. Military Shoots Down Two Iranian Drones in Hormuz Strait The U.S. military has shot down two Iranian suicide drones in the Hormuz Strait. The U.S. Central Command announced on June 6 that it intercepted the drones, which were threatening international maritime traffic in the region. The command stated, "We are maintaining a defensive posture in response to Iran's aggressive actions." Earlier that day, Central Command reported the downing of four Iranian suicide drones launched toward the Hormuz Strait. Hours later, Iran reportedly fired seven ballistic missiles at U.S. bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, leading to further localized clashes between the two sides.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-07 11:15:00

New Regulations Enhance Traceability for Imported Frozen Mackerel and Pollack Traceability regulations for imported seafood, including frozen mackerel and pollack, are set to be strengthened. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries announced that it will enhance oversight of the distribution process from the moment seafood is imported until it reaches consumers' tables, allowing for quick identification of distribution routes in case of issues.Starting June 29, the ministry will implement revised guidelines for the traceability of imported seafood. This revision extends the designated period for 22 existing items until April 30, 2029.To ensure transparency in the distribution of imported seafood, the ministry has been enforcing a traceability management system. Under this system, importers and distributors of designated seafood must report transaction details at each distribution stage, from customs clearance to final sale.The recent revision adds five new items to the list, including frozen mackerel, frozen pollack, frozen squid, and both frozen and chilled squid. The designated period for the previously managed items, such as eel and frozen yellow croaker, has also been extended to April 30, 2029. As a result, the total number of items under traceability management has increased from 22 to 27.Companies involved in the import and distribution of these items are required to report to the National Fisheries Products Quality Management Service within five days of receiving the seafood, either electronically or in writing. This reporting obligation applies to both importers and distributors. Online reporting is available through the service's traceability system website.Park Seung-jun, Director of Aquaculture and Fisheries Policy at the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, stated, "This revision strengthens the foundation for thoroughly tracking and managing the entire distribution process of frequently consumed imported seafood."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-07 11:12:00

Jensen Huang's Leadership Reflected in a Simple Meal In the first weekend of June 2026, a humble pork belly restaurant in Seoul unexpectedly drew global attention. The reason? Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA and a leader in the AI revolution, was seated among the bustling after-work crowd. Dressed in a black leather jacket, he was grilling pork belly and sharing drinks with officials from LG Electronics, Naver, and SK Hynix, all while smiling brightly. At first glance, he appeared to be just another office worker enjoying dinner with old friends, but he is, in fact, one of the most scrutinized figures in the global capital markets.Interestingly, this scene was no coincidence. Huang has long demonstrated a unique management style. He has been spotted enjoying pepper buns at night markets in Taiwan, visiting hawker centers in Singapore, and dining at modest ramen shops in Japan. In Hong Kong, he frequents local favorites, and in Korea, he opts for pork belly. What drives a billionaire CEO to seek out street food and casual dining? Is it merely a matter of taste, or is there a deeper strategy and philosophy at play?His appearance at the Seoul pork belly restaurant was far from the typical image of a global corporate leader. Smoke from grilling meat wafted through the air as busy waitstaff rushed to serve plates. Huang flipped the meat with a smile, and those at the table engaged in lively conversation. He resembled a neighborhood big brother rather than the head of the world’s leading AI company. Yet, it was this very naturalness that resonated with people. While discussions about AI and semiconductors may be complex, the act of sharing a meal of pork belly is universally relatable.Global Dining PatternsA closer look at Huang's dining choices reveals a consistent pattern.First, he seeks out supply chain hubs. Taiwan, where he enjoys pepper buns, is the center of the world's largest foundry industry, while Korea, where he dines on pork belly, is a leading producer of high-bandwidth memory (HBM). Singapore serves as a hub for the data center industry, and Japan is critical for advanced materials and equipment. In other words, Huang's dining venues are not merely tourist spots but the heart of the AI industry's supply chain.Second, he opts for casual dining over fine dining. While many global CEOs might prefer high-end hotel banquets or private dinners, Huang takes the opposite approach. He enters spaces filled with the aroma of home-cooked meals. Pork belly, noodles, and ramen are universally understood languages. While advanced AI technology may be complex, food is simple. People may not remember the structure of a data center, but they will recall grilling pork belly.Third, he always engages in fan service. At the Computex event in Taiwan, he is surrounded by admirers like a rock star. Young developers and students line up for his autograph and wait long to take a photo with him. Such scenes are rare for a corporate CEO. However, today, Huang has become a symbol of the AI revolution.Dining as Supply Chain DiplomacyMany view dining as simply a meal. However, in the international business world, meals often hold more significance than meetings. Historically, important diplomatic breakthroughs have frequently occurred over dinner rather than in conference rooms.The corporate world is no different. Huang's dining experiences can be seen as a form of supply chain diplomacy. He bridges gaps with people through food, setting aside complex technical jargon and contracts to engage in human-to-human interactions. It is in these moments that the future direction of industries is discussed.People see pork belly, but what is truly in motion is a supply chain worth trillions. They see pepper buns, but behind them, the future of the AI industry is being shaped. While dining may appear as a friendly cultural activity, it encapsulates cold industrial strategies and global management philosophies.Why People Adore Jensen HuangWhy do people today idolize Jensen Huang? It is not solely because he is a successful businessman. Many wealthy individuals and famous CEOs exist, yet not all become public stars.People appreciate Huang because he comes across as relatable. He does not present himself as a special figure. He wears a black leather jacket, eats street food, and takes photos with ordinary people. Despite being the CEO of a leading global company, he maintains an approachable demeanor.Another key reason is his ability to articulate a vision for the future. He does not stop at explaining GPUs; he illustrates the world that AI will create. He sells dreams rather than just technology, sharing visions instead of mere numbers. People are moved by stories rather than technology and are inspired by hope rather than data. Huang understands this better than anyone.Lessons for Korean LeadersHere lies a point for leaders in our society to reflect upon. Today, many politicians, business leaders, and public officials are becoming increasingly distant from the public. While explanations have increased, empathy has diminished; authority remains, but approachability has faded. Citizens no longer respect titles alone, nor do they trust power alone. They seek authenticity and communication skills.Of course, leaders cannot gain popularity simply by forcing themselves to dine with the public. The key lies in attitude. It is essential to strive to connect with people, to align with the perspectives of citizens and customers, and to choose communication over authority.This is especially important for leaders in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. As people age, they tend to rely on past successes and depend on titles and authority. However, the AI era is not one of authority but of connection. It is not a time for commands but for empathy. Leadership that fails to win the hearts of citizens, customers, employees, and citizens will not endure.A New Textbook for Leadership in the AI EraAI is transforming the world. Paradoxically, the value of humanity becomes even more crucial in the AI era. Technology may advance, but people still find inspiration in other people. Algorithms can calculate but cannot empathize. Artificial intelligence can provide information but cannot build trust.Thus, leaders in the AI era must possess both technological and human qualities. They should be able to discuss the world’s best technologies while sharing laughs over pork belly, negotiate multi-billion-dollar deals while taking selfies with students, and plan for the future without forgetting the people of the present.Today, South Korea stands at a significant crossroads. AI is not merely a technological revolution; it is a civilizational shift that alters the order of industry, economy, politics, education, culture, and daily life. The leadership required in this era is neither the authoritative leadership of the past industrial age nor the popularity-driven leadership that merely chases public acclaim. It demands insight that can breathe with the people while looking toward the future, strategic thinking that can align with the direction of the nation and businesses while connecting with individuals, and a sense of balance that understands advanced technology without losing sight of humanity.Huang's pork belly and pepper buns may not just be about food. They could be a metaphor for the new leadership required in the AI era. The image of a CEO of a leading global company laughing and taking photos with street people, enjoying food at night markets, and engaging casually with supply chain partners illustrates that, no matter how advanced technology becomes, the true power that moves the world lies with people.AI can mimic human intelligence but cannot replace human trust. Ultimately, it is not technology itself that determines the future but the people who use that technology and the leadership that guides them.South Korea now faces the same question. What kind of leader do we want in the AI era? What kind of entrepreneur do we respect? What kind of society do we wish to create? Will it be a leadership that reigns over people with authority and distance, or a leadership that enters the community, breathes with the people, and designs the future together?The outcome of the AI revolution will not be determined solely by the performance of semiconductors or the scale of data centers. The ultimate measure of national competitiveness will be how much leadership understands people, connects with them, and nurtures their potential.The reason a piece of pork belly and a pepper bun became global topics is precisely that. As the AI era deepens, the value of humanity grows. For South Korea to remain a respected nation in the world, it must evolve into a country of leadership that embodies dignity and trust beyond being a technological powerhouse. This may be the most unexpected yet profound message left by Jensen Huang's dining experiences.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-07 11:12:00