Lee So-young, Minister of the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, attended the '2026 Small Business Leaders Forum' at the Lotte Hotel Jeju in Seogwipo on October 20, where she encouraged small business owners from across the country and outlined policy directions to support their growth and advancement.
In her opening remarks, Minister Lee acknowledged the challenges faced by small business owners due to changes in the global trade environment, supply chain uncertainties, and advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) technology. She emphasized her commitment to supporting small businesses not only in adapting to these changes but also in becoming new growth engines for the South Korean economy through field-centered policies.
She stated, “We will actively identify and improve unreasonable regulations that hinder corporate innovation and challenges, and expand opportunities for capable small businesses to participate in national growth projects.”
Additionally, she mentioned plans to enhance support for carbon neutrality initiatives, develop and promote a physical AI-based autonomous manufacturing strategy, and effectively strengthen administrative sanctions against technology theft.
Minister Lee reiterated, “Under the principle that 'the starting point of policy is the field,' we will faithfully reflect the voices of small business owners in our policies and create an environment where companies can innovate and take risks freely.”
The 'Small Business Leaders Forum' is an annual event organized by the Korea Federation of SMEs, serving as a key platform for CEOs in the small business sector to exchange ideas and discuss trends in the domestic and international economy and society, as well as vision and policy issues affecting small businesses.
This year’s forum, themed 'Together with Small Businesses, Towards Becoming a Top 3 AI Nation,' is taking place in Jeju until October 23, with over 400 representatives from various industries and regions in attendance.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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