Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon emphasized the need to invent new social systems in light of the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on societal structures. He reiterated his intention to establish a K-Labor Council during a press briefing on July 22 at the Government Sejong Center.
During the meeting, Kim stated, "We need social innovations and new social systems that align with technological advancements." He referenced the recent victory of professional Go player Shin Jin-seo against an AI Go program, noting, "Shin Jin-seo won because he took a path that the AI did not know. I, too, am someone trying to explore unknown paths."
Kim highlighted that just as the emergence of the working class during the industrial revolution led to the creation of social security systems through struggle and compromise, the changes brought about by AI necessitate a fundamental redesign of existing systems.
He remarked, "Social systems are also inventions. While our predecessors invented social security systems during times of transition, we must now reinvent social systems as AI fundamentally alters existing frameworks." He added, "We must innovate not only technology but also our systems to achieve the overarching goal of AI serving humanity against technological determinism."
Among the new systems he proposed is the K-Labor Council, envisioned as a self-help organization and welfare delivery system for atypical workers who find it difficult to join or organize labor unions. Kim explained, "We are considering providing services such as welfare cards, career recognition, vacation, small loans, and retirement benefit applications to many who cannot even join unions. We want to create a space where workers feel they can also voice their concerns within the framework of state systems, rather than living in a survival-of-the-fittest society."
To this end, the ministry is reviewing plans to expand and reform existing labor welfare laws and systems to focus on all workers, including atypical workers. While the name and specific operational methods of the K-Labor Council may change, the fundamental aim of connecting and protecting unorganized workers will remain intact.
Regarding the implementation of the Yellow Envelope Law, Kim stressed the importance of clarifying the law's intent to minimize confusion during its initial rollout. On the previous day, President Lee Jae-myung pointed out in a cabinet meeting that the Yellow Envelope Law has expanded the scope of labor disputes, raising concerns about potential conflicts on the ground. He stated, "It is the government's role to provide certain standards."
In response, Kim noted, "We are closely monitoring how the Yellow Envelope Law is being implemented 100 days after its enactment, and we will expedite related procedures to prevent any initial confusion or misunderstandings, especially in light of cases like those raised by the Samsung Electronics mega union."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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