Seoul, May 25, 2026 – South Korea’s Economic, Social and Labor Council (ESLC) has established a tripartite committee to examine how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping employment and workplace dynamics. The initiative brings together representatives from labor, business, government, and public interest groups for a year-long dialogue on the future of work in the AI era.
The 17-member committee, chaired by Hwang Deok-soon, former presidential jobs secretary, convened its first meeting in Seoul to discuss how AI adoption may influence job structures, worker data collection, and industrial operations. The ESLC confirmed that the committee will conduct expert consultations and workplace assessments to evaluate practical applications of AI technologies.
Amid growing public debate over automation and humanoid robotics, ESLC Chair Kim Ji-hyung emphasized the need to balance technological innovation, industrial competitiveness, and labor market stability. The council aims to ensure that AI-driven transformation supports both productivity and worker protection.
The launch marks a proactive step by South Korea to address the social and economic implications of AI in the workplace, positioning the country as a leader in responsible technology governance and inclusive labor policy.
