On Concerns Over Conflict of Interest Due to Corporate Background
"I Will Take Special Care"
On June 30, Kim Jungkwan, the nominee for Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, stated, "In the era of AI, if semiconductors and data centers are the brain, then energy is the heart," adding, "The heart and brain cannot be separated. I will do my utmost to ensure that industry, trade, and energy work together organically."
Kim made these remarks while speaking to reporters on his first day commuting to the hearing preparation office at the Korea Technology Center on Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, in relation to organizational restructuring such as the establishment of the Ministry of Climate and Energy.
He continued, "I understand that the matter is currently under discussion at the National Policy Planning Committee. From my experience, industry and energy are inseparable," and added, "We should not consider industry and energy separately when preparing for the AI era."
Regarding the recent urgent trade situation caused by U.S. tariff measures, he said, "I began my public service career in the Industrial Tariffs Division. It feels ironic, as if I have returned to the days of WTO negotiations," and added, "I will do my best from the perspective of national interest, cooperating with relevant agencies such as Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo."
When asked whether there had been any special instructions from President Lee Jaemyung, he replied, "I don't think it is appropriate to comment on that at this time."
Regarding the outlook for the 'July Package' tariff negotiations, which must be concluded by July 8, he said, "I have not yet fully grasped the relevant information," and added, "I will have an opportunity to provide an explanation at an appropriate time."
On measures to restore exports, he stated, "It is still too early to present a detailed policy blueprint," but added, "Having previously been in charge of global marketing, I know better than anyone how fiercely our companies compete overseas. I will take the lead on the export front lines."
In response to criticism that there has been a lack of follow-up events or government-level actions regarding the Czech nuclear power plant order, he said, "I have been to the Czech Republic so many times that I have lost count," and added, "I consider this a national celebration. I understand that the President also conveyed his congratulations to the Czech Prime Minister by phone. There will be an opportunity at the appropriate time."
Regarding concerns about a potential conflict of interest due to his career at Doosan, he stated, "It is not that I have not considered such concerns," and added, "A company is a workplace and a place to protect families, and the government should protect and expand those workplaces. I do not see it as a particular conflict of interest, but if any issues arise, I will take special care."
In response to criticism that the supplementary budget proposal excludes funding related to nuclear power, he said, "I have not yet fully grasped the details of that part," and added, "There will be an opportunity to explain when the time comes."
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