Yoo Seung-min "DeepSeek is the Result of Accumulation... China Should Not Be Ignored"

"Korea's Growth Engine Is Fading...
Need to Foster Innovative Talent"

Former People Power Party lawmaker Yoo Seung-min mentioned the Chinese AI startup 'DeepSeek,' which is shaking up the artificial intelligence (AI) market landscape, saying, "Many people hate China, and while it's okay to hate, you should never ignore it. China has already caught up with Korea in high-tech fields such as AI and big data."

On the 3rd, on MBC Radio's 'Kim Jong-bae's Focus,' Yoo said, "The DeepSeek incident is the result of accumulation," adding, "The Chinese government has long invested under state leadership and worked to cultivate science and technology talent. While we lead in some areas like semiconductors, it is only a matter of time before we are caught up." He continued, "Our economy's growth engine has long been completely extinguished, as shown by indicators," and said, "Unlike the past when growth was labor-intensive and capital-intensive, now we have no choice but to pursue innovative growth."

He also argued that reforms are necessary to nurture innovative talent. He emphasized, "China has long been attracting and cultivating top-tier talent worldwide," and said, "We also need to nurture talent in science, mathematics, and engineering." He added, "In high school, the friends who excel most in math, physics, and science often become doctors," and said, "We need a tremendous reform that changes incentives."

Former People Power Party lawmaker Yoo Seung-min

Regarding U.S. President Donald Trump's initiation of universal tariff procedures against major trading partners Canada, Mexico, and China shortly after taking office, Yoo expressed concern, saying, "Canada is like one body with the U.S., yet Trump imposed tariffs on them," and added, "Tariffs will soon come to Korea as well, and I worry whether Acting President Choi Sang-mok is in talks with the U.S. on this issue."

Yoo said, "It would be best if tariffs are not imposed, but even if they are, Korea should face similar tariffs as other countries. How will we overcome the export damage Korea might suffer?" He added, "Trump's nickname is 'Tariff Man.' He will not concede on tariff issues."