South Korean Prime Minister Han Seong-sook used National Foundation Day to spotlight the power of culture and outline the government’s vision for a more inclusive AI-driven society.
Speaking at a commemorative ceremony at Seoul’s Sejong Center on Oct. 3, Han said culture could help expand empathy and solidarity as countries confront challenges shared across humanity. She called for greater cooperation in sharing experiences, technology and cultural capabilities.
Han connected that vision to the founding philosophy associated with Gojoseon, Korea’s first kingdom, particularly the principle of broadly benefiting humanity. She said applying that spirit today could mean using Korea’s cultural influence to build wider international cooperation.
But culture was only one part of Han’s message.
The prime minister also pledged to advance the government’s concept of an “AI-basic society,” in which people can access AI services regardless of income, age or digital-literacy level. She said the transition should not leave anyone isolated or excluded.
The government also plans to focus on everyday economic concerns, with Han highlighting housing stability, job creation and expanded financial support for ordinary citizens as areas where policy should produce tangible benefits.
The National Foundation Day ceremony marked the 4,358th anniversary of the traditional founding of Gojoseon. The event also recognized citizens who had helped others, including a firefighter who rescued neighbors during heavy rainfall in Tongyeong and a nurse who helped save a person who suffered cardiac arrest.
Han’s speech therefore brought together three themes — Korea’s cultural influence, the country’s AI transition and improvements to people’s livelihoods — while placing them within the historical symbolism of National Foundation Day.
As South Korea looks toward an increasingly AI-driven future, Han’s message suggests that the next chapter will not be defined by technology alone — but by how culture, innovation and social benefits reach people.
WWC ONE MEDIA G,A
