[Profile] Lee Jong-ho, First Minister of Science and ICT Candidate under Yoon Government, Director of Seoul National University Semiconductor Research Center

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-su] The Yoon Seok-yeol administration, which will launch in May, has nominated Lee Jong-ho, director of the Semiconductor Joint Research Center at Seoul National University, as the first Minister of Science and ICT. This appointment is seen as recognition that semiconductor technology development and industrial revitalization have become an existential challenge for the Korean economy.

Candidate Lee graduated from Kyungpook National University and earned a Ph.D. in engineering from Seoul National University Graduate School. He then worked at the Microsystems Technology Laboratories at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the U.S. and served as a professor at Wonkwang University and Kyungpook National University. In 2009, he joined Seoul National University as a professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. He has also served as a member of the National Science and Technology Advisory Council and as a private-sector member of the Special Committee on Materials, Parts, and Equipment operated by the Ministry of Science and ICT since 2019. He is regarded as a top expert in AI semiconductor technology, credited with opening a new chapter in semiconductors by developing the world’s first 3D semiconductor device technology called ‘bulk FinFET,’ ahead of U.S. Intel.

This appointment of candidate Lee is evaluated as a decision made in consideration of the increasing importance of the semiconductor industry’s fate to national destiny amid the global economic environment marked by U.S.-China hegemony competition and the Russia-Ukraine war, which have raised the possibility of a new Cold War. There is a growing need to focus scientific and technological development on semiconductor technology advancement and industrial growth, and accordingly, a tailored expert has been selected.

In this regard, after deciding to run for president, President-elect Yoon showed special interest in the semiconductor industry by visiting the Seoul National University Semiconductor Research Center, where candidate Lee works, as his first field visit. At that time, President-elect Yoon received a ‘special tutoring’ session lasting four hours from candidate Lee, covering the current status and future of semiconductor technology and industry.

At the press conference, candidate Lee stated, “I have long experience and accumulated knowledge in semiconductors. I recognize the great importance of semiconductors and will work to advance this field.” He added, “Korea is not only about semiconductors, so I will examine the sites of all industries, listen to various opinions, communicate, and carefully look for improvements to enhance national efficiency.” Regarding the upcoming confirmation hearing, he said, “I have nothing particular to say. However, since my opinions may differ from others’, I will listen carefully and respond thoughtfully.”