South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has nominated former Naver chief executive Han Seong-sook as the country’s next prime minister, signaling a major push toward artificial intelligence-driven economic growth and technology-led reform.
The presidential office announced the nomination Sunday, describing Han as a key figure capable of leading South Korea’s transition into a more innovation-focused economy. If confirmed by the National Assembly, Han would become the first female prime minister in South Korea in nearly two decades and only the second woman ever to hold the office. (Korea Joongang Daily)
Han currently serves as minister for small and medium-sized enterprises and startups in the Lee administration and previously led Naver, South Korea’s largest internet and search platform company. (Wikipedia)
Lee Bets on Technology and AI Leadership
Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik said Han’s experience in both government and the technology industry made her well suited to oversee South Korea’s “great AI transformation.” (Korea Joongang Daily)
Han is expected to play a central role in policies involving artificial intelligence, startup development, digital infrastructure, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises.
According to Korea JoongAng Daily, the Lee administration believes Han can help convert South Korea’s export-driven growth into broader “inclusive growth” benefiting regional economies and smaller businesses. (Korea Joongang Daily)
The nomination comes as South Korea intensifies competition with the United States, China, and Japan in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, robotics, and advanced manufacturing sectors. Recent visits by Jensen Huang to Seoul also highlighted South Korea’s growing importance in the global AI supply chain. (Reuters)
From Tech Executive to National Leadership
Han built her career in South Korea’s technology sector before entering politics.
She joined early internet company Empas in the late 1990s and later rose through leadership roles at Naver before becoming the company’s first female CEO in 2017. During her tenure, Naver expanded aggressively into e-commerce, digital content, fintech, and international markets. (Wikipedia)
Han later joined President Lee’s cabinet as SMEs and Startups Minister after his administration took office in 2025. Supporters credit her with helping expand startup investment and encouraging innovation-focused economic policy. (The Korea Times)
If approved by parliament, Han would succeed Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, who is reportedly preparing to pursue leadership within the ruling Democratic Party. (qazinform.com)
Political and Economic Significance
The nomination is being viewed as both an economic and symbolic move.
Politically, it strengthens President Lee’s effort to portray his administration as reform-oriented and focused on future industries. Economically, it signals deeper government emphasis on AI, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship at a time when South Korea faces slowing growth, demographic decline, and increasing international competition. (The Star)
Han’s nomination also carries historic gender significance in a country where women remain underrepresented in top political leadership roles. The last female South Korean prime minister was Han Myeong-sook, who served from 2006 to 2007. (Devdiscourse)
Analysts say Han’s business background could appeal to younger voters and technology investors while reinforcing the administration’s reputation for prioritizing innovation-led economic policy.
Parliamentary Approval Still Required
Under South Korean law, the prime minister must be confirmed by the National Assembly. President Lee’s Democratic Party currently maintains strong parliamentary influence following recent local election successes, though opposition lawmakers are expected to closely examine Han’s corporate background and policy record during confirmation hearings. (Reuters)
No confirmation vote date has yet been announced.
Sources
- Reuters – South Korea’s Lee nominates former Naver CEO Han as prime minister (The Jerusalem Post)
- Korea JoongAng Daily – Lee taps Han to lead Korea’s AI transformation (Korea Joongang Daily)
- The Korea Times – SMEs Minister Han Seong-sook tapped as new PM (The Korea Times)
- Chosun Ilbo – President Lee names Han Seong-sook as prime minister (조선일보)
- Reuters – Nvidia CEO highlights South Korea’s AI and robotics potential (Reuters)
Editor: Sudhir Choudhary
Tags: South Korea, Lee Jae-myung, Han Seong-sook, Naver, Artificial Intelligence, South Korea Politics, Business News, Technology Industry, Asia News, Prime Minister
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