Yoon calls for solidarity at World Knowledge Forum

President Yoon Suk-yeol speaks at the 25th World Knowledge Forum at Inspire Entertainment Resort, Yeongjongdo, Incheon, on the 10th. [Photo by Lee Chung-woo]

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol called for unity amid rapid technological changes to work towards a conflict-free world.

Speaking at the 25th World Knowledge Forum, hosted by Maekyung Media Group at Inspire Entertainment Resort in Incheon’s Yeongjong Island, Yoon emphasized the need for solidarity and a collective response to global challenges.

Highlighting the current geopolitical conflicts and geoeconomic competition, noting the rise of authoritarian forces and ongoing global conflicts, Yoon called for the restoration of solidarity. “We need to unite to resolve the threats and conflicts brought about by technology, expand freedom and welfare, end wars, restore peace, and rebuild freedom and solidarity.”

Former Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen also stressed the importance of unity among ASEAN countries, suggesting that a united ASEAN could promote sustainable prosperity. The Cambodian politician also suggested practical cooperation between ASEAN and Korea on the condition of mutual respect for each other‘s domestic affairs.

The forum featured debates on key issues, including the upcoming U.S. presidential election, global economy, and the era of artificial intelligence. Chris Miller, the Tufts University professor who authored “Chip War,” highlighted the critical role of semiconductor chips and likened their significance to currency. Justin Wolfers, a professor of economics at the University of Michigan, projected that AI-driven automation could replace 36 percent of labor, reducing costs and boosting global GDP by 8 percent in the next decade.

In his welcome address, organizer Maekyung Media Group’s Chang Dae-whan also underscored the need for coexistence amid advancing AI technology and growing international conflicts.

The event was attended by former Hungarian President Katalin Novak, former Argentinean President Mauricio Macri and former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, who were joined by Korean and global opinion leaders as well as around 1,600 audience members.