Ha Jung-woo, 48, the former head of AI innovation at Naver Cloud, was named the first Chief of AI Future Planning within the presidential office on June 15.
A deep learning specialist, Ha had led the development of advanced AI technologies at Naver and was a vocal proponent of building “sovereign AI” — domestically developed AI systems tailored to national priorities.
In his inaugural press briefing, Ha underscored the need for cross-ministerial collaboration, describing AI development as a “strategic imperative” for South Korea’s economic and technological independence.
President Lee also nominated Han Seong-sook, 58, a pioneering figure in South Korea’s internet industry, as Minister of SMEs and Startups.
Han served as Naver’s chief executive from 2017 to 2022 — the first woman to hold the role — overseeing a critical period of expansion into mobile platforms, fintech, and overseas markets.
Under her leadership, the company launched Naver Pay, scaled its global webtoon business, and surpassed 6 trillion won (about $4.3 billion) in annual revenue during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The appointments reflect a broader departure from the traditional practice of staffing key policy roles with bureaucrats and academics. Instead, President Lee's administration is turning to private-sector technologists with hands-on experience to help shape the country’s digital future.
Industry analysts say the move aligns with Lee’s campaign pledge to develop a homegrown AI model, positioning South Korea as a leader in next-generation technologies while reducing dependence on foreign platforms.
reporter
Kim Dong-young
davekim0807@ajupress.com
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