[New Year's Address] SK Chairman Chey Tae-won: "Let Us Take on the 'Seungpungparang' Challenge in the Age of AI"

Choi Tae-won, Chairman of SK Group, stated in his 2026 New Year's address, "Let us ride the powerful wave of change brought by artificial intelligence (AI) and boldly navigate the rough waters of the global market."

Choi Tae-won, Chairman of SK Group. Photo by Dongju Yoon

On the morning of January 1, Chairman Choi delivered his New Year's message to all SK Group members via email, saying, "With the mindset of 'Beopgochangsin'-creating new things based on the assets and values we have accumulated-we should take on the challenge of 'Seungpungparang,' overcoming the coming waves. Let us move forward with this spirit."

At the beginning of his address, Chairman Choi emphasized, "Even amid an uncertain business environment, SK Group is regaining the solid fundamental strength needed to run farther and faster." He expressed his gratitude for the efforts and dedication of members who have strengthened the company's foundation through portfolio rebalancing and operation improvement (O/I). He continued, "We are experiencing a period of upheaval as global industries and business structures are being reshaped around AI, which has already become a deeply embedded reality in our daily lives." He added, "From memory, ICT, energy solutions, and batteries to the services that connect them, the path SK has quietly followed for decades has, in the end, been a journey preparing for today's AI era."

Furthermore, he said, "Based on the time and capabilities we have built up, last year we once again confirmed the high level of trust in the global market for our AI semiconductor business." He continued, "We are solidifying our position as a key partner in the AI ecosystem, standing shoulder to shoulder with the world's leading big tech companies." Chairman Choi stressed, "The AI era has only just begun, and the market ahead will be incomparably larger and filled with limitless opportunities. Let us move forward onto a greater global stage with pride and confidence in our abilities."

The driving force that Chairman Choi identified for SK Group to take another leap forward as a leader in the global AI ecosystem is the 'AI Integrated Solution,' which brings together the capabilities of all member companies. He emphasized that the enormous innovation of AI is not a challenge for semiconductors alone, stating, "The business capabilities that SK member companies have built up over many years in energy, telecommunications, construction, and bio will serve as a strong foundation for the AI era."

Chairman Choi said that a solid foundation in existing businesses is essential for a successful AI transformation, remarking, "We must further strengthen the essence of the businesses that SK has excelled at, and then wisely incorporate the innovation of AI on top of that." He proposed, "By creating new business models such as AI-based solutions and services in the areas we know and do best, let us cultivate SK's unique differentiated value."

In closing, Chairman Choi said, "I will work to ensure that every member can creatively take on challenges and grow based on AI, and that their achievements translate into personal happiness." He added, "Let us work together to make 2026 a year in which our challenges bear fruit and lead to even greater pride for all members."