South Korea, Japan urged to boost semiconductor, battery, AI cooperation

SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - Sohn Kyung-shik, chairman of the Korea Employers Federation, on Thursday called for cooperation between South Korean and Japanese companies in strategic sectors such as semiconductors, electric vehicle batteries and artificial intelligence, citing mounting geopolitical risks and global supply-chain realignments.

Speaking at a meeting in Seoul with Japanese Ambassador Koichi Mizushima, Sohn said the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties in 2025 presents a key opportunity to deepen economic collaboration.

“Next year marks a significant moment to open a new chapter in Korea–Japan relations,” Sohn said. “With both countries facing geopolitical rivalry, supply-chain restructuring, climate change and demographic pressures, these challenges must be addressed together.”

He said that, in uncertain global conditions, “close neighbors like South Korea and Japan" should join forces to secure future growth engines, adding that deeper corporate partnerships in next-generation technologies would allow the two economies to drive innovation and remain competitive globally.

Business cooperation between the two countries has been expanding in fields such as semiconductors, hydrogen mobility and other advanced technology sectors, with Japanese investment in South Korea also on the rise.

Sohn urged both governments to foster a business environment conducive to free investment and corporate expansion. He also highlighted the positive reception of a special fast-track immigration lane introduced for citizens of both countries during June’s 60th anniversary events, calling for the measure to be made permanent.

Ambassador Mizushima said strengthening economic ties would yield mutual benefits despite global uncertainties. “Our geographical proximity and shared values create opportunities to maximize complementary strengths,” he said.

The Korea Employers Federation has held regular meetings with the Japanese ambassador since 2020 to enhance bilateral business cooperation and support Japanese firms operating in South Korea. This year’s meeting brought together leading South Korean business representatives and Japanese officials.

* This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP.

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