Schedule
Day 1 Edaily Strategy Forum (Main Event Opening) / Dynasty Hall
| Time | Program | Speaker |
|---|---|---|
| 09:0009:30 | VIP Reception | |
| 09:3010:00 | Opening Ceremony |
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| 10:0011:00 | Key Session 1 The Future Is Already Here... Leadership in the Era of 'Population Onus' |
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| 11:0012:00 | Key Session 2 Korea's feritlity trends in international context: |
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| 12:0013:00 | [Lunch] | |
| 13:0014:30 | Session 1 Building a Social Model ¨ç : Welfare and Finance |
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| 14:3015:30 | Session 2 Building a Social Model ¨è Housing Where and How to live in a Super-Aged Society? |
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| 15:3015:50 | [Networking Break] | |
| 15:5016:50 | Session 3 Building a Growth Model : 3 steps to sustain Growth in an Inverted Population Pyramid |
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| 16:5018:00 | Special Session 1 The Future Envisioned by the Elderly¡¦Joyful Aging, a Beautiful Finale |
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* Main program(s) and/or schedule(s) may be subject to change.
Day 2 Edaily -PERI Special Symposium / Dynasty Hall
Subject : Population Policy and Placed-Base Policy in the Low Fertility Era
| Time | Program | Speaker |
|---|---|---|
| 09:3009:40 | Welcome Address |
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| 09:4010:30 | Keynote Session 3 Regional Policies in the Era of Low Birth Rates |
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| 10:3012:00 | Session 4 [PERI-MDRC]The Importance of Scientifically Designed Immigration Policies |
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| 12:0013:00 | [Lunch] | |
| 13:0014:30 | Session 5 [PERI-Urban Institute]Differentiated Regional Population Strategies |
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| 14:3015:30 | Session 6 [PERI-Brookings Institution]Regional Population Strategies and Fiscal Outlooks |
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| 15:3015:50 | [Networking Break] | |
| 15:5017:20 | Special Session 2 The Future Envisioned by the Young Generation |
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* Main program(s) and/or schedule(s) may be subject to change.
Sessions
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Keynote Session 1
The Impact of Demographic Changes on the Economy
The existential threat posed by rapid low birth rates and population aging is not unique to Korea. Experts warn of the coming era of ¡°population onus¡±-a time when a shrinking workforce and slowing economic growth create mounting challenges for society. The long-standing economic formula based on population growth is no longer valid. As population decline becomes a global trend, it is now imperative to fundamentally reconsider our existing social and economic systems. Like Korea, Poland is also grappling with demographic challenges. The Polish government has pursued a variety of fiscal and population strategies to achieve economic development amid these headwinds. Bronis©©aw Komorowski, former President of Poland, will examine demographic shifts in Poland and across Europe, sharing Poland¡¯s policy approaches to population issues and fiscal strategies for economic revitalization. He will also offer insights on the role of government and the vision for leadership in an era of population onus, especially as the global economic environment undergoes rapid change. As discussant, Hyung-hwan Joo, Vice-chairman of Presidential Committee on Ageing Society and Population Policy will reflect on the policy directions Korea should pursue and explore innovative fiscal solutions for the future. -
Keynote Session 2
Trends in Korea¡¯s Fertility Rate in an International Context: What Is the Role of Policy?
South Korea¡¯s population has declined by more than 450,000 over the past five(5) years. The phenomenon of ultra-low fertility(a total fertility rate of 1.3 or below) has persisted for over 23 years, amounting to what can only be described as a ¡°national population emergency.¡± Willem Adema, Senior Economist at the OECD who has spent over three(3) decades researching family policy, will examine Korea¡¯s fertility rate, family formation, and non-childbearing trends in an international context. He will also analyze potential barriers to parenthood, such as labor market characteristics, housing issues, private education costs, and shifting intergenerational attitudes. Together with In-sun Lee, Chairperson of the National Assembly Women and Family Committee, he will review the government¡¯s population policies and explore pathways toward a sustainable future. This session will offer insights into the challenges faced by other countries experiencing low birth rates and aging, and present policy alternatives for Korea. -
Session 1
Establishment of social model¨ç Welfare and FinanceAging, more difficult issue than low birth rate¡¦ Necessary and sufficient conditions for building a new society
South Korea's population aged 65 and older surpassed 20 percent at the end of last year, officially marking the country as a "super-aged society." This demographic milestone is no longer a distant future concern but an urgent reality, underscoring the need for comprehensive preparation for this new societal structure. Significant paradigm shifts are anticipated in welfare and fiscal policies. Key challenges include resolving intergenerational conflicts arising from extended retirement ages, addressing the skyrocketing demand for healthcare and caregiving services, and tackling pension fund depletion caused by the growing elderly population. This session brings together leading experts in social welfare, finance, and pensions to discuss the foundational elements required for building a "new society." Gi-il Lee, 1st Vice Minister of Health and Welfare, will share the government¡¯s policy direction regarding healthcare, long-term care, and caregiving. Sun-dul Jeong, 33rd President of the Korean Gerontological Society, will propose solutions for mitigating social conflicts stemming from extended retirement ages. -
Session 2
Establishment of social model¨è Housing Where and how to live in a super-aging society?
Korea has entered an era where the elderly population exceeds 10 million, yet policies and infrastructure related to senior housing remain insufficient to meet these demographic changes. Experts emphasize that improving the quality of life for seniors requires more than simply constructing facilities like "silver towns." Instead, they advocate for creating spaces where seniors can coexist with their communities without isolation. Toshikatsu Nakazawa, Chairman of Japan¡¯s National Association of Paid Senior Citizen Homes, will introduce Japan¡¯s senior housing services, which have been developed in response to its own super-aged society. Byeong-geun Kang, Chief Architect of Seoul Metropolitan Government, will present on the housing environments needed for Korea as it transitions into an aging society. Under the moderation of Hee-jung Choi, CEO of Well-Aging Research Institute, experts will discuss directions for improving housing systems to support "aging well." -
Session 3
Establishment of a growth model3 stages of establishing a ¡®growth model¡¯ to support the inverted pyramid population
As Korea¡¯s population ages, significant changes are anticipated in the industrial landscape, with a shrinking pool of younger workers and a growing share of older employees. According to the Korea Employment Information Service, by 2033, half of the economically active population willing to work will be aged 55 or older. In light of these trends, experts stress the need for strategies to enhance the productivity of older workers and to facilitate their smooth integration into the labor market. Simultaneously, new markets are expected to emerge, including "aging-tech" solutions that support seniors¡¯ quality of life, as well as advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) that shall replace human labor. This session will bring together leading experts to analyze current challenges and explore opportunities for the future of industrial workplaces. Discussions will focus on training and employment strategies for older workers, shifts in industrial trends, and innovative approaches to navigating the evolving labor market. -
Special Session 1
The Future Envisioned by the Elderly¡¤¡¤¡¤Joyful Aging, a Beautiful Finale
¡°¡®Well-Dying¡¯ is the completion of ¡®Well-Living.¡¯¡± This is the philosophy espoused by Hye-young Won, Co-chair of Well-Dying Culture Movement, who emphasizes the importance of accepting aging and preparing for death as a natural extension of life. At the end of last year, Korea entered a super-aged society, with over 20% of its population aged 65 or older. Yet, many point out that public discourse on aging still lags behind the rapid pace of demographic shift. Shiyo Asai, Editor-in-Chief at Japan¡¯s Poplar Publishing, will discuss ways to positively embrace aging, focusing on 'well-aging' - how to age healthily, beyond simply 'well-living'(Well-being). Young-jin Choi , Co-CEO of Senior Army, will speak about the transformation and new social roles of seniors, who were once simply recipients of care. Senior Army is a civilian organization in which retirees voluntarily declare their willingness to serve in the military during times of national crisis, aiming to reduce the conscription burden on younger generations. The group advocates for a ¡°Well Graying¡± society, where seniors take the initiative in contributing to and making sacrifices for the future. Hye-young Won, who has dedicated himself to promoting well-dying culture after retiring from politics, will offer profound perspectives on ¡°how to die well.¡±
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Keynote Session 3
Regional policies in the low birth rate era
Through the keynote speeches of Yung-rok Kim , Governor of Jeollanam-do, and Hak-hong Kim, Vice Governor for Administrative Affairs of Gyeongsangbuk-do, we will be hearing about each region¡¯s policy direction in response to the era of low birthrates. Jeollanam-do aims to launch the ¡°Jeonnam Special Self-Governing Province¡± next year, with plans to significantly transfer government authority, create new growth engines, and lead practical local autonomy. Gyeongsangbuk-do is implementing innovative, full-cycle policies to address low birthrates, covering everything from matchmaking and marriage to childbirth and childcare. Following the keynote speeches, there will be a discussion between Jae-wan Park, Former Minister of Strategy and Finance, and Yong-seop Lee, Former Gwangju Mayor, former Minister of Construction and Transportation. -
Session 4
[PERI-MDRC] The Importance of Scientifically Designed Immigration Policies
The time has come to discuss population and regional policies in the era of low birth rates. These discussions must now be grounded in evidence that supports the necessity of such policies. The Policy Evaluation Research Institute (PERI) and EDAILY have invited James Riccio and Cynthia Miller, researchers from MDRC, a leading U.S.-based institution specializing in evidence-based policy research, to collaborate with domestic experts on population and immigration policies tailored for Korea. James Riccio and Cynthia Miller, who are attending the EDAILY-PERI Special Symposium for the second consecutive year, will present actionable policy recommendations based on their deep understanding of Korea¡¯s unique circumstances. Their proposals will focus on effective population and immigration strategies. Following their presentations, discussions with domestic government officials, heads of research institutions, and academic experts will further explore these critical issues. -
Session 5
[PERI-Urban Institute] Differentiated Regional Population Strategies
The problem of regional extinction in South Korea can no longer be overlooked. Out of 228 Korea's administrative districts, over half, 130 regions, are now classified as at risk of extinction due to population decline, and even metropolitan areas are not immune, according to recent studies. This session seeks solutions through presentations by experts from the 'Urban Institute', a leading U.S.-based economic and social policy research institution with a 57-year history. Gregory Acs, Associate Director of Tax and Income Support at Urban Institute; Tracy Gordon, Vice President of Tax Policy at Urban Institute and Director of Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center; and Steven Martin, Senior Research Fellow of Labor, Human Services, and Population Center at Urban Institute, will provide their insights into differentiated regional population strategies. Domestically, Young Lee, Director of Korea Institute of Public Finance(KIPF), will present tailored population policies for Korea. Following the presentations, a panel discussion will feature Huck-ju Kwon, President of Korea Institute of Public Administration; Man Cho, Emeritus Professor from KDI School of Public Policy & Management; and Jin-kwon Hyun, Director of Gangwon Development Institute. Together, they will explore actionable strategies to address the demographic challenges facing Korea¡¯s regions. -
Session 6
[PERI-Brookings Institution] Regional Population Strategies and Fiscal Outlooks
Robert Puente, Deputy Director of Brookings Metro - a division of the Brookings Institution, America¡¯s preeminent think tank with a 109-year legacy - and Professor Cheol-hee Lee, Professor of Department of Economics, Seoul National University, will present on regional population strategies and fiscal outlooks. Their presentations will be followed by a panel discussion featuring Korea¡¯s leading experts in public finance and regional policy: Yoon-sang Kim, 2nd Vice Minister of Strategy and Finance; Kyo-eon Shim, President of Korea Research Institute for Human Settlements; and Won-jae Lee, President of the Real Estate Research Institute?Former Vice Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. -
Special Session 2
The future envisioned by the young generation
¡°MZ generation employees wearing earphones at work,¡± ¡°This? Me? Why me?¡± These are common portrayals of young workers in media discussions about generational conflicts in the workplace. Can the gap in perspectives between the 2030 generation and older generations ever be bridged? In this session, generational researcher and author Hong-taek Lim, known for his bestseller ¡®90s Generation is Coming¡¯, will help dispel misconceptions about young people held by older generations. Together, we will explore strategies to enhance empathy and communication across generations. The youth themselves will also propose solutions to pressing demographic challenges such as low birth rates and aging populations. Winners of EDAILY¡¯s university student contest will present ideas for corporate and government policies that address the needs of young people, such as enabling flexible parental leave systems and alleviating concerns about career interruptions. Through presentations and discussions, participants will delve into the societal changes that demographic shifts may bring and how younger generations can contribute to shaping the future.
Speakers
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Bronislaw KomorowskiThe 5th President of Poland
He served as the 5th President of Poland. He was Poland¡¯s Minister of Defence in 2000 and held the position of Deputy Speaker of the Sejm(Polish Parliament) from 2001 to 2006. In 2007, he became Speaker of the Sejm and was elected President in 2010, serving until 2015. During his presidency, he accelerated pro-economic, pro-business, and pro-Western policies in Poland. Born in 1952 into a noble family in Oborniki Śląskie, southern Poland, he grew up in poverty in a working-class neighborhood in the capital city of Warsaw. He graduated from the Faculty of History at the University of Warsaw in 1977 and spent his youth actively participating in Poland¡¯s democratization movement. Following the fall of communism in Central Europe in 1989, Komorowski began his political career.
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Willem AdemaSenior Economist of Social Policy Division at OECD
He is an economist who has spent over 30 years researching labor and family policy at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). He currently leads analysis on family, gender, and housing policy within the Directorate for Employment, Labour and Social Affairs. He first gained prominence in Korea with a 2019 report that identified the country¡¯s long working hours culture as a primary cause of the country's low birth rate. His analysis highlighted how Korea¡¯s culture of extended working hours makes work-life balance difficult, resulting in a female employment rate below the OECD average. In the 1990s, he also contributed to reports addressing social exclusion in Korea and policies for labor markets and social safety nets. He holds a degree from Erasmus University Rotterdam in the Netherlands and a doctorate from St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford.
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Se-hoon OhMayor of Seoul
Now serving his 4th term as Mayor of Seoul, he leads the city guided by the philosophy of ¡°Companionship.¡± This approach emphasizes solidarity with the underprivileged, future generations, and collaboration between central and local governments, envisioning a brighter future for Korea. He is actively leading initiatives such as the "Seoul Birth Encouragement Project," a policy package aimed at overcoming the low birth rate crisis, and addressing housing challenges through programs like "My Home in Advance." Regarding the issue of regional decline, he has proposed the "Five(5) Small Powerhouse Project," a balanced national development strategy based on cooperation between central and local governments. He has also advocated for a significant transfer of administrative and legislative authority to local governments to empower regional autonomy.
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Hyung-hwan JooVice-chairman of Presidential Committee on Ageing Society and Population Policy
He is a seasoned economic policymaker who began his public service career after passing the 26th Civil Service Examination. He has held key positions in the Ministry of Strategy and Finance, including overseeing fiscal policy, domestic finance, and international economic affairs. Currently, he serves as the Vice-chairman of the Presidential Committee on Ageing Society and Population Policy, leading national strategies to address the challenges of low birth rates and population aging. During his tenure as Director-General for International Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Strategy and Finance, he played a pivotal role in crafting policies to drive national growth. Under the Park Geun-hye administration, he was appointed Secretary for Economic and Financial Affairs at the Office of the President, later becoming the First Vice Minister of Strategy and Finance in 2014, where he spearheaded measures to restore economic vitality during the MERS outbreak. He has also served as Minister of Trade, Industry, and Energy, Distinguished Professor at Sejong University¡¯s Graduate School of Public Policy, Visiting Professor at the University of Hawaii, and Invited Professor at Seoul National University¡¯s College of Business Administration.
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In-sun LeeChairperson of the National Assembly Women and Family Committee
A member of the National Assembly representing Daegu Suseong District B under the People Power Party, she currently serves on the Strategy and Finance Committee and chairs the Women and Family Committee of the 22nd National Assembly. After earning a Ph.D. in Food and Nutrition from Yeungnam University, she served as a professor at Keimyung University, mentoring future generations. She is also recognized as an expert in administration, having held key positions such as Director of Daegu¡¯s New Technology Business Division, President of Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Director of the Korea Foundation for the Advancement of Science and Creativity, and Commissioner of the Daegu-Gyeongbuk Free Economic Zone Authority. As Vice Governor for Political and Economic Affairs in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, she became the nation¡¯s first female vice governor. Recently, she has been actively engaged in advancing women¡¯s rights and leading the push for family-friendly policies. Entering the political arena as a member of the 21st National Assembly, she was re-elected to the 22nd National Assembly, where she continues her legislative work.
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Young-rok KimGovernor of Jeollanam-do
He is currently serving consecutive terms as the 38th and 39th Governor of Jeollanam-do. He graduated from Gwangju Jeil High School, earned a bachelor¡¯s degree in public administration from Konkuk University, and a master¡¯s degree in public administration from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University. After passing the 21st Higher Civil Service Examination, he began his public service career, serving as mayor of Gangjin County, mayor of Wando County, Director of Public Relations at the Ministry of Government Administration and Home Affairs, and Vice Governor for Administrative Affairs of Jeollanam-do, gaining administrative experience at both local and central levels. He entered national politics as a member of the 18th National Assembly, serving on the Agriculture, Food, Forestry and Fisheries Committee, the Special Committee on Budget and Accounts, and the Planning and Finance Committee. Leveraging his expertise as secretary of the Agriculture Committee, he also served as Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.
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Hak-hong KimVice Governor of Gyeongsangbuk-do
He is currently serving as the 36th Vice Governor for Administrative Affairs of Gyeongsangbuk-do Province. Born in Mungyeong, Gyeongbuk, he earned both his bachelor¡¯s and master¡¯s degrees in Public Administration from Konkuk University and completed doctoral coursework at Kyungpook National University. After passing the 35th Higher Civil Service Examination, he began his public service career at the North Gyeongsang Provincial Officials Training Institute and held positions in the Department of Cultural Industries and the Planning and Management Office. He also served as a legislative specialist at the North Gyeongsang Provincial Council, Director of Science and Technology Promotion, Director of Energy Policy, Director of Policy Planning, Head of the Job and Economy Headquarters, Director of the Creative Economy and Industry Office, and Deputy Mayor of Gyeongsan. He later transferred to the Ministry of the Interior and Safety (formerly the Ministry of Government Administration and Home Affairs), where he served as Director of Civil Cooperation, Director of Regional Innovation Policy, and Director of Civil Defense. He also led the Decentralization Planning Team of the Presidential Committee on Autonomy and Decentralization.
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Ho-jong ChoiChoreographer & Dancer
A next-generation dancer and choreographer leading the Korean dance scene. Renowned for his genre-defying movements and unique worldview, he is often referred to as "The Genre of Ho-jong Choi " and "The Dancer's Dancer." He first gained recognition by sweeping the prestigious Dong-A Dance Competition. In 2016, he became the youngest member to join the National Dance Company of Korea, where he rose to the position of Associate Principal Dancer, building an extraordinary career. Last year, he achieved widespread fame by winning Mnet's male dancer survival program Stage Fighter, earning idol-like popularity. He is credited with driving the popularization of dance, once considered a niche art form, and is hailed as a pioneer in shaping the future of K-dance. His awards include the "2024 Dancer of the Year Award" and the "Kim Baek-bong Award." Currently, he serves as an ambassador for Arts Council Korea's Creative Arts Program, continuing to inspire through his groundbreaking work.
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James RiccioPrincipal Research Fellow, MDRC
He holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from Princeton University and has built a distinguished career in social policy research at MDRC, where he currently serves as a Senior Researcher. From 2004 to 2021, he led MDRC¡¯s Economic Mobility, Housing, and Communities policy area, overseeing numerous research projects aimed at improving labor market outcomes, human development, and quality of life for low-income populations. Currently, he serves on various advisory boards, including the research committee for the National Alliance to End Homelessness and the Research Methods Advisory Panel for the UK Department of Work and Pensions. He is also a board member of The Community Builders, a nonprofit housing development organization.
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Cynthia MillerSenior Research Fellow, MDRC
She is an economist and a Senior Researcher at MDRC. She earned her Ph.D. in Economics from Columbia University and focuses on policies aimed at increasing employment rates and income for low-wage workers and disadvantaged youth. Currently, she serves as the director of a research project evaluating wage subsidies for childcare workers and is also responsible for assessing the effectiveness of job training programs in the clean energy sector. Previously, she led the evaluation of the U.S. government¡¯s "National YouthBuild" program, which provides vocational training for disadvantaged youth.
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Gregory AcsVice President for Tax and Income Support at the Urban Institute
He holds a Ph.D. in Economics and Social Work from the University of Michigan and currently serves as Associate Director of Tax and Income Support at the Urban Institute. He specializes in research on social insurance, social welfare, and worker compensation. Before joining the Urban Institute, he served as Unit Chief for Labor and Income Security in the Congressional Budget Office¡¯s Health and Human Resources Division. Additionally, he held leadership roles such as Vice President of the Association for Policy Analysis and Management. Currently, he focuses on studying economic and social mobility and economic security, particularly among low-income working households.
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Tracy GordonTracy Gordon, Vice President of Tax Policy at Urban Institute ∙ Director of Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center
She is the Co-Director and Acting Robert C. Pozen Director of the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center. She specializes in researching fiscal challenges faced by state and local governments, including budget trade-offs, intergovernmental relations, and long-term sustainability. Before joining the Urban Institute, she served as a Senior Economist with the White House Council of Economic Advisers. She has also held positions as a Fellow at the Brookings Institution, Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland School of Public Policy, and Research Fellow at the Public Policy Institute of California. Additionally, she is an active member of the boards of trustees for the American Tax Policy Institute and the California Budget & Policy Center.
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Steven MartinSenior Research Associate of Center on Labor, Human Services, and Population at Urban Institute
He is a Senior Research Associate at the Urban Institute. From 2000 to 2009, he served as an Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of College Park. Between 2010 and 2012, he worked as a Senior Research Scientist in Social Science Research at New York University. Since 2013, he has been conducting extensive social science research as a Senior Research Associate at the Urban Institute, focusing on various social science topics, including family demography, economic mobility, and policy analysis.
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Robert PuenteDeputy Director of Brookings Metro
He serves as Vice President and Director of Brookings Metro at the Brookings Institution. From 1996 to 2000, he worked as the Director of Infrastructure Programs and Senior Planner at the Intelligent Transportation Society of America. His career at the Brookings Institution has included roles such as Senior Research Manager, Director of the Metropolitan Infrastructure Initiative, Senior Fellow, and Nonresident Senior Fellow. He also served as President and CEO of the Eno Center for Transportation, and has held public service roles, including Planning Commissioner for Falls Church, Virginia.
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Toshikatsu NakazawaChairman of the National Association of Paid Senior Citizen Homes
Since 2018, he has led the National Association of Paid Senior Citizen Homes as a Chairman, implementing a wide range of policies and training programs to protect residents and advance the eldercare industry. After graduating from the Faculty of Law at Chuo University, he served as a major city manager in the large-scale construction and comprehensive development division at Sumitomo Forestry. Subsequently, he spearheaded PFI(Private Finance Initiative) projects for local public organizations, promoting senior welfare housing development. As the head of a Sumitomo Forestry affiliate, he managed paid elderly homes, contributing to the establishment of new facilities and improving care quality. Currently, he serves as Chairman of the association while also working as a certified administrative scrivener, supporting foreign talent entering the elderly care sector.
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Byeong-geun KangChief Architect of Seoul Metropolitan Government
He is an architect specializing in accessible architecture for people with disabilities. He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in Architectural Engineering from Konkuk University and later obtained a Ph.D. in Architecture from the Technical University of Berlin. From 1986 to 2017, he served as a professor in the Department of Architecture at Konkuk University and is now an emeritus professor. Currently, he is the Director of the Barrier-Free Living Environment Research Institute and serves as Seoul's General Architect. He has led notable projects such as the Petite France French Cultural Village in Gapyeong, Jeju Eco Land, the 'Gapyeong Woori Village', vocational training and co-living facility for individuals with developmental disabilities, and the 'Geoje Aegwangwon' facility for education, training, accommodation, care, and healing for people with physical and mental disabilities.
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Siyo AsaiEditor-in-Chief of Popura Publishing Co., Planner of the best-selling Silver Senryu book publication, ¡¸I thought It Was Love, but it was an Arrhythmia¡¹
Asai Siyo is a Japanese Publishing Planner who sparked the "Silver Senryu" (ô¹×³, a short form of Japanese poetry) trend in Korea. Since 2001, Asai has curated and published a series of poetry collections featuring award-winning entries from the annual "Silver Senryu" contest organized by Japan's National Association of Paid Senior Citizen Homes. In January last year, she introduced the collection "I Thought It Was Love but It¡¯s Arrhythmia" to Korean readers for the first time, selling over 50,000 copies. The book humorously captures the joys and sorrows of old age, resonating deeply with readers in both Korea and Japan. Since 2005, she has served as Nonfiction Editorial Manager at Poplar Publishing, one of Japan¡¯s leading publishing houses, following a 30-year career that includes editorial roles at Takara-jima and Heibonsha.
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Hye-young WonCo-Chairperson of Well-Dying Culture Movement
After retiring from politics in 2020, he has served as Co-Chairperson of the Well-Dying Culture Movement, a non-profit organization. His involvement in the enactment of the "Act on Decisions on Life-Sustaining Treatment" during the 19th National Assembly in 2016 served as a turning point for his engagement in this field. He founded Pulmuone, a pioneering eco-friendly food company, before transferring ownership to a friend and entering national politics through the 14th General Election in 1992. He served as the elected Mayor of Bucheon during its 2nd and 3rd terms and held key positions such as Chairman of the Policy Committee for the Woori Party, Chairman of the Special Committee on Budget and Accounts in the National Assembly, and Floor Leader of the Democratic Party during his five terms as a Member of Parliament (14th, 17th, 18th, 19th, and 20th National Assembly). In December last year, he published "The Last Selfish Decision", a book reflecting on his career and personal insights.
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Woo-young LeeChairman of Human Resources Development Service of Korea(HRDK)
Since November 2023, he been serving as the 16th Chairman of Human Resources Development Service of Korea(HRDK), leading efforts to advance workforce development and vocational training in Korea. He earned a bachelor's degree in engineering from Hanyang University and master's and doctoral degrees in engineering from Seoul National University. After working as a senior researcher at the Agency for Defense Development, he became a professor at Korea University of Technology and Education (KOREATECH) in 1992. He has held key positions such as Chairman of Korea Polytechnic University, Ombudsman for the Ministry of Employment and Labor, and Public Interest Member of the Economic and Social Development Commission, contributing significantly to policies on technical education and vocational training. He has also served as President of the Korean Society for Practical Engineering Education and Advisor to the Win-Win Growth Committee, promoting industry-academia collaboration and advancing engineering education.
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Jae-boong ChoiProfessor of Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University
He is a professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Head of the Department of Service Convergence Design at Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU). He also serves as Director of the SKKU University Advancement Cooperation Office and leads the Regional Innovation-Centered University Support System (RISE) Project Group. In addition, he plays key roles across government and academia as a member of the Digital AI Education Special Committee of the National Education Commission, Chair of the University Innovation Growth Foundation Project Management Committee at the National Research Foundation of Korea, and advisor to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism¡¯s Cultural Digital Innovation Council. He previously served as Vice President and Director of the Office of Industry-Academia Cooperation at SKKU, as well as Director of the Ministry of Education¡¯s LINC 3.0 Project Group. He has shared his broad expertise in artificial intelligence (AI), the metaverse, and digital innovation through numerous media appearances. His major publications include 'AI Sapiens,' 'Metaverse Story,' 'Change Nine,' and 'Phono Sapiens.'
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Hong-taek LimBestselling Author of ¡¸90s Generation is Coming¡¹
He is the bestselling author of '90s Generation is Coming', a book that created a significant impact upon its release, becoming a must-read for many corporate executives and leaders. He currently serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Future Convergence Management at Myongji University and as CEO of Flamingo Entertainment Co., Ltd. He began his career at CJ Group in 2007, where he spent 12 years gaining diverse experience, including leading new employee orientation programs at CJ Human Resources Academy and analyzing customer feedback (VOC) in the Consumer Team. As an author, he has explored the dynamics of the MZ Generation"(Millennials and Generation Z) through his major works, including '90s Generation is Coming,' '2000s Generation is Coming,' and 'That¡¯s Unfair.' He has provided consulting and delivered lectures on organizational culture improvement for leading corporations such as Samsung, SK, Hyundai Motor Group, and LG Group, as well as for central government agencies and local governments.
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Sun-dul Jeong33rd President of the Korean Gerontological Society ¡¤ Professor of Social Welfare at Ewha Womans University
As a professor in the Department of Social Welfare at Ewha Womans University, she has made significant contributions to social welfare policy and research over her career. She has served as a member of the Policy Advisory Committee for the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family and the National Integration Committee, and she was the 33rd President of the Korean Gerontological Society. She has played key roles in various government initiatives, including serving as an advisory member of the Presidential Committee on Aging Society and Population Policy, Chairperson of the Smart Welfare and Safety Community Promotion Council under the Ministry of Interior and Safety, and Co-Chairperson of Seoul's Companion with the Disadvantaged Committee. Recently, she has been actively involved as a member of the Ministry of Health and Welfare¡¯s Loneliness Prevention Committee and Co-Chairperson of the Expert Roundtable on Elderly Age Standards.
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Gi-il Lee1st Vice Minister of Health and Welfare
He is a distinguished public health and welfare expert who has held key positions within the Ministry of Health and Welfare. He graduated from Konkuk University with a degree in Public Administration and entered public service after passing the 37th Higher Civil Service Examination. During his career, he earned a Master¡¯s degree in Public Administration from the University of Oregon and a Ph.D. in Public Health from Inje University. In the Ministry, he has held several important roles, including Director of Childcare Policy, Spokesperson, Director-General of Healthcare Policy, Director-General of Health Insurance Policy, and Assistant Minister for Healthcare Policy. In May 2022, he was promoted to 2nd Vice Minister overseeing healthcare, and just five months later, in October of the same year, he transitioned to the role of 1st Vice Minister, where he now oversees welfare policies and population initiatives.
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Yeong-jun Jeon43rd President of the Korean Public Finance Association ¡¤ Professor of Economics and Finance at Hanyang University
He is an economist who earned his Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania in 1995. He worked as a researcher at the Korea Institute of Public Finance from 1995 to 2002, taught at Incheon National University from 2002 to 2007, and has been conducting research and teaching at Hanyang University since 2007. His primary research areas include intergenerational equity and welfare systems, optimal taxation, generational accounting, and general equilibrium modeling. He has contributed to various government committees, including the National Pension System Reform Planning Group, the National Pension Financial Recalculation Committee, the Presidential Transition Committee, the Social Security Finance Statistics Expert Committee, and the Audit Policy Advisory Committee. From 2022 to 2023, he served as the 43rd President of the Korean Public Finance Association.
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Geon-ho OhCo-chairperson of the Policy Committee of the Welfare State I Create
He is a prominent expert in welfare policy and pension reform. He currently serves as Co-chairperson of the Policy Committee of "The Welfare State I Create," a civic organization advocating for sustainable welfare systems. He has contributed to national policy as a member of the 5th National Pension Financial Projection Committee and as an advisor to the National Assembly¡¯s Special Committee on Pension Reform, and has also participated as a member of the Social Rights Expert Committee of the National Human Rights Commission of Korea. In addition, he has served as a member of the Presidential Committee on Low Fertility and Aging Society and as a member of the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education¡¯s Policy Advisory Committee on Educational Welfare, dedicating himself to research and policy consultation for the realization of a true welfare state. His major publications include ¡°Why Are Citizens Unhappy Despite a Wealthy Nation?¡± and ¡°National Pension: Public Enemy or Social Solidarity Wage?¡±
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Dong-yeop KimManaging Director at Mirae Asset Investment and Pension Center
A renowned expert in retirement and pension planning, currently serving as the Executive Director of the Mirae Asset Investment & Pension Center and as a board member of the Korean Pension Association. He earned his bachelor's degree in Political Science and Diplomacy from Yonsei University and a master's degree in Real Estate Management from Konkuk University. He also served as a director at the Korea Financial Planning Association (FP). He has been recognized for his contributions to the financial industry, receiving the Financial Supervisory Service Governor's Award in 2012 and the Korea Financial Investment Association Chairman's Award in 2018. He frequently appears on major broadcasting networks such as KBS and SBS, sharing insights on retirement planning. Additionally, he delivers lectures on organizational retirement strategies for leading corporations and institutions, including Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Heavy Industries, Korea Teachers' Pension Service, and the National Pension Service. His notable publications include ¡°Smart Aging¡± and "Understanding Taxes to See Pensions Clearly".
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Hee-jung ChoiCEO of Well-Aging Research Institute
A leading authority on super-aged society and senior housing welfare, she currently serves as CEO of Well-Aging Research Institute, an Advisory Board Member of CareDoc, and a Director of the Korea Healthcare Silver Town Development Convergence Society. She earned her bachelor's degree in Health and Welfare from Nihon Fukushi University in Japan, followed by a master's degree in Social Welfare from the same university, and a doctorate in Social Welfare from Yonsei University's Graduate School of Social Welfare. She has lectured at numerous universities and institutions, sharing her expertise on senior housing development, healthcare, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance)-based senior business strategies. She has also participated in planning projects such as the Magok MICE VL Le West and Haeundae Station Development for senior housing complexes. As the author of several publications, including Super-Aged Society New Normal Series, she continues to contribute to research and policy discussions on senior welfare and housing through various media outlets such as International Social Security Review, Hospital News, and Edaily.
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Man-ki JungChairman of the Korea Industry Federation Forum
He has played a leading role in shaping Korea¡¯s industrial and trade policies, having served as the First Vice Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, Secretary for Industry, Trade and Resources at the Presidential Office, Director-General for Industrial Policy, and Director-General for Trade Policy. He graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in Ethics, earned a master¡¯s degree in Public Administration from Seoul National University, and received a Ph.D. in Economics from Paris Nanterre University (Paris X) in France. He entered public service in 1983 after passing the Higher Civil Service Examination. He has since contributed to strengthening Korea¡¯s industrial competitiveness as Chairman of the Korea Automobile Manufacturers Association, Chairman of the Korea Automobile Industry Cooperative Association, and Vice Chairman of the Korea International Trade Association. Currently, as Chairman of the Korea Industry Alliance Forum, he leads efforts to foster cooperation for sustainable industrial development. He also serves as an advisor at Dentons Lee law firm and as an outside director at Hyosung Advanced Materials.
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Chong-bum AnPresident of Policy Evaluation Research Institute(PERI)
After completing his Ph.D. in economics at the University of Wisconsin in the United States, he returned to Korea and built a distinguished career as a research fellow at Daewoo Economic Research Institute and the Korea Institute of Public Finance, as well as professor of economics at the University of Seoul and Sungkyunkwan University, where he also served as President of the Korean Association of Public Finance. He has held prominent public offices, including Member of the 19th National Assembly and Senior Presidential Secretary for Economic Affairs and Policy Coordination. His major publications include ¡°Tax Reform for Workers and Low-middle Income Bracket,¡± ¡°An Jong-beom¡¯s Notebook,¡± ¡°Policies in the Notebook,¡± ¡°Deceived by Politics while Crying Over Taxes,¡± ¡°Theory of Policy Evaluation Reform,¡± and ¡°G3 Korea.¡±
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Jae-wan ParkFormer Minister of Strategy and Finance
He currently serves as Chairman of the Hansun Foundation for Freedom & Happiness. He is also a professor and honorary professor in the Department of Public Administration at Sungkyunkwan University. Park has held key positions in government, including serving as a proportional representative in the 17th National Assembly, Senior Secretary for National Planning to the President, Minister of Employment and Labor, and Minister of Strategy and Finance. Since 2014, he has been actively leading initiatives to address issues related to the Korean Peninsula and economic development as Chairman of the Hansun Foundation for Freedom & Happiness. Starting in 2023, he has expanded his contributions to education and economics as Chairman of Sungkyunkwan University and President of the Korea Council for Economic Education.
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Yong-seop LeeFormer Mayor of Gwangju City and Minister of Construction and Transportation
He currently serves as an advisor at Yulchon LLC and a distinguished research professor at Chonnam National University. He earned a master's degree in Applied Economics from the University of Michigan and a doctorate in Economics from Sungkyunkwan University. He has held numerous prominent roles, including Mayor of Gwangju Metropolitan City, where he spearheaded regional development, and as a member of the 18th and 19th National Assembly. Additionally, he served as Minister of Construction and Transportation, Minister of Government Administration and Home Affairs, Commissioner of the National Tax Service, and Commissioner of the Korea Customs Service, contributing significantly to public administration and policy development. He also played key roles as Vice Chairperson of the Presidential Committee on Jobs and Senior Secretary for Innovation Management in the Presidential Office. Furthermore, he was a visiting researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.
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Ha-nam BangFormer Minister of Employment and Labor
He is a distinguished scholar specializing in labor who previously served as Minister of Employment and Labor. He graduated from the Department of English at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, earned a master¡¯s degree in Sociology from Vanderbilt University, and completed his Ph.D. in Sociology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He dedicated 17 years to research at the Korea Labor Institute, holding key positions such as Director of the Employment Insurance Research Center and Head of the Labor Market Research Division, where he led studies on senior employment and pension systems in Korea. He has also contributed his expertise as an advisor for labor welfare policies at the Ministry of Labor, Senior Expert Member of the Economic and Social Development Commission, and member of the Employment Insurance Committee at the Ministry of Employment and Labor. In addition to serving as President of the Korean Social Security Association and the Korean Pension Association, he held positions as Minister of Employment and Labor and President of the Korea Labor Institute. Currently, he is a Distinguished Professor at the Graduate School of Public Administration at Kookmin University.
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Heon-jae SongProfessor of Economics at Seoul National University
He is an economist at the Department of Economics at the University of Seoul, specializing in labor economics, development economics, public economics, and applied microeconometrics. He earned his bachelor's degree in Economics from Seoul National University, a master's degree in Economics from Texas A&M University, and a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Southern California. From 2009 to 2012, he worked as an associate research fellow at the Korea Institute of Public Finance, conducting research on tax and fiscal policies. He has served as a member of the National Pension Fund Management Committee and as a distinguished research fellow at the National Pension Research Institute. Currently, he is the President of the Korean Association of Applied Economics. Recently, he has raised important concerns about pension issues arising from low birth rates and an aging population.
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Yoon-soo ParkProfessor of Economics at Sookmyung Womens University
He is an economist specializing in labor economics, the economics of education, and policy evaluation at the Division of Economics at Sookmyung Women¡¯s University. He earned his bachelor's degree in Economics from Seoul National University and his Ph.D. in Economics from Princeton University. After completing his doctorate, he worked as a research fellow at the Korea Development Institute (KDI). Professor Park has actively contributed to various advisory roles, including serving as an external advisor to the Ministry of Economy and Finance's Innovation Growth Headquarters, a task force advisor for vocational skills development under the Presidential Committee on Jobs, and an operating committee member for the Lifelong Education Voucher Program at the National Institute for Lifelong Education. Additionally, he has served as a financial diagnostic committee member for private universities at the Korea Foundation for the Promotion of Private Schools and as an evaluation expert for government-supported employment programs, wage-sharing initiatives, and employment insurance funds at the Ministry of Employment and Labor.
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Jae-jun HeoPresident of Korea Labor Institute
He is the President of the Korea Labor Institute (KLI). He also serves as a civilian member of the Presidential Committee on Aging Society and Population Policy, a public interest member of the Economic, Social, and Labor Council, a member of the Employment Insurance Review Committee, and a member of the National Pension Development Committee. He earned his bachelor's degree in Trade and his master's degree in International Economics from Seoul National University before obtaining his Ph.D. from Paris Nanterre University (Université Paris Nanterre). After completing his doctorate, he joined the Korea Labor Institute in 1995 and has held key positions such as Head of the Labor Market and Social Policy Research Division, Head of the Social Policy Research Division, and Head of the Employment Policy Research Division. In 2023, after 27 years at the institute, he was appointed as its president. His research focuses on the impact of technological advancement on labor markets. Based on insights into the challenges posed by digital transformation, he is dedicated to improving labor systems, competition norms, and social security systems. Huh has also authored notable books such as 'The Future of Capitalism' and 'Self-Employment, Platform Labor, and the Welfare State'.
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Seul-gi ChoiProfessor of Public Policy and Management at KDI School
He is a demographer specializing in low birth rates and future population issues. He earned a master's and Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and led the Population Policy Lab at the KDI School of Public Policy and Management, conducting research on population, development, and social policy. At KDI School, he has taught courses such as Population and Development, Social Development and Policy, Introduction to Research Methods, and Population Issues and Policy Responses, fostering the next generation of scholars in demography and social policy. As a Standing Member of the Low Birth Rate and Aging Society Committee, he has contributed to developing national strategies and policies to address demographic changes.
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Hyun-sook KimFormer Minister of Gender Equality and Family
A policy expert with a background in economics. She earned both her bachelor¡¯s and master¡¯s degrees in economics from Seoul National University before receiving her Ph.D. in economics from the University of Illinois. She began her career as a senior research fellow at the Korea Institute of Public Finance (KIPF) and has been a professor in the Department of Economics at Soongsil University since 2007, nurturing future economists. She was elected as a proportional representative to the 19th National Assembly, where they actively contributed to policymaking. She served as a member of Park Geun-hye's Presidential Transition Committee in the Women and Culture Subcommittee, secretary of the National Assembly's Gender Equality and Family Committee, and spokesperson for the Saenuri Party. Later, she transitioned to public service as Senior Secretary for Employment and Welfare in the Presidential Office, overseeing labor reforms. Most recently, she served as a Policy Advisor for the 20th Presidential Transition Committee and held the position of Minister of Gender Equality and Family from 2022 to 2024. Currently, she is the Associate Dean of the College of Economics and International Commerce at Soongsil University.
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In-sil LeeDirector of Korea Future Population Research Institute
She is the Director of the Korea Future Population Research Institute. She earned her bachelor's degrees in Geology and Economics from Yonsei University and a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Minnesota. Dr. Lee has held several prominent positions, including serving as the inaugural Director of the Economic Analysis Division at the National Assembly Budget Office and as the first female and civilian Commissioner of Statistics Korea. She has also contributed to academia as a professor at Sogang University's Graduate School of Economics and has served as President of the Korean Economic Research Association and the Korean Economic Association, as well as Chairperson of the Institute for Sustainable Economic and Social Development. She has participated in numerous government committees, such as the Presidential Regulatory Reform Committee, Government Policy Evaluation Committee under the Prime Minister¡¯s Office, Financial Development Review Committee, Tax System Development Review Committee, Fiscal Strategy Council, Fair Trade Commission Policy Evaluation Committee, Ministry of Justice Policy Planning Committee, National Assembly Future Strategy Committee, and Advisory Committee for the National Assembly Budget Office. Her notable publications include '2030 Korean Economy' and 'The 5 Secret Growth Engines of the Korean Economy'.
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Young LeePresident of Korea Institute of Public Finance
He is the 15th President of the Korea Institute of Public Finance(KIPF). An economist by training, he earned his bachelor¡¯s and master¡¯s degrees in economics from Seoul National University and his Ph.D. in economics from the University of Michigan. He has held various prominent positions, including Associate Research Fellow at the Korea Development Institute(KDI) and Professor and Dean of the College of Economics and Finance at Hanyang University. In 2015, he served as Vice Minister of Education. Additionally, he has actively contributed to policy advisory roles as President of the Anmin Policy Forum, Chairperson of the System Adjustment Subcommittee of the Social Security Committee, Member of the National Economic Advisory Council, and Chairperson of the Innovation Growth Subcommittee under the Presidential Committee for Balanced National Development. Since his inauguration as President of KIPF, he has identified three core research priorities: developing tax and expenditure policy packages for a sustainable welfare state, designing tax and spending policies to address demographic change, and advancing fiscal policy for balanced regional development.
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Huck-ju KwonPresident of Korea Institute of Public Administration
He is the President of the Korea Institute of Public Administration(KIPA) and a professor at the Graduate School of Public Administration at Seoul National University. He holds a bachelor's and master's degree in Political Science from Seoul National University and a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Oxford. After returning to Korea, he served as a professor in the Department of Public Administration at Sungkyunkwan University. He has also held key roles such as Research Coordinator at the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD), member of the International Development Cooperation Committee under the Prime Minister's Office, Civil Service Pension Operations Committee member, and Government Performance Evaluation Committee member. Additionally, he served as Director of the Global Public Administration Development Institute at Seoul National University. As the President of KIPA, he emphasizes the importance of research on administrative innovation to address the era of major societal transitions brought about by low birth rates, aging populations, and technological changes.
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Man ChoEmeritus Professor, KDI School of Public Policy & Management
He is an Honorary Professor at the KDI School of Public Policy and Management and President of the Korea Financial Consumer Association. After graduating from Yonsei University, he earned a Ph.D. in Economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He has worked at the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and Fannie Mae, and served as an adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University. At KDI, he held roles such as Professor at the KDI School, Director of Planning and Coordination, and Chairperson of the International Financial Consumer Association. He has also served as a member of various policy advisory committees related to finance and real estate, including the Housing and Urban Fund Management Committee, Non-Executive Director of LH Corporation, and Policy Advisory Committee member for the Ministry of the Interior and Safety.
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Jin-kwon HyunDirector of Gangwon Research Institute
He is the Director of Gangwon Development Institute. He earned a bachelor's degree in Architectural Engineering from Yonsei University, a master's degree in Regional Planning from the University of North Carolina, and a Ph.D. in Policy Analysis from Carnegie Mellon University. After returning to Korea, he worked as a researcher at the Korea Institute of Public Finance(KIPF) and later served as a professor in the Department of Economics at Ajou University. He also held the position of Secretary for Civil Society in the Presidential Office. Subsequently, he served as Director of the Social Integration Center at the Korea Economic Research Institute, President of the Korean Economic Association, President of the Center for Free Enterprise, and Director of the National Assembly Library. Since 2022, he has been leading the Gangwon Development Research Institute. He has actively pursued regional innovation initiatives, such as advocating for inheritance tax exemptions for companies relocating to Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province to stimulate the local economy. His efforts are focused on fostering sustainable development and economic revitalization in the region.
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Il-ho YooFormer Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs
He is an economist-turned-politician. After graduating from the Department of Economics at Seoul National University, he earned a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania. As an expert in economic policy, he worked at institutions such as the Korea Development Institute (KDI) and served as President of the Korea Institute of Public Finance (KIPF) and Chairman of the Special Committee on Tax Reform. In 2008, Yu entered politics after being elected as a member of the 18th National Assembly. He served on committees such as the Health and Welfare Committee and the Planning and Finance Committee. During his second term, he held key positions, including Policy Committee Chairman. He later served as Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Strategy and Finance. Currently, he serves as the Chairperson of the Regulatory Reform Committee. His notable publications include 'Economics and Politics: Stories from National Assemblyman Yoo Il-ho' and 'Dreaming of Healthy Welfare.'
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Cheol-hee LeeProfessor of Department of Economics, Seoul National University
He is a professor in the Department of Economics at Seoul National University, conducting research on various demographic issues. He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in Economics from Seoul National University and completed his Ph.D. in Economics at the University of Chicago in 1996. After serving as an assistant professor at Binghamton University, State University of New York, he returned to Seoul in 1998 to join the faculty at Seoul National University. He has held numerous roles, including member of the Gender Equality Committee, Foreign Policy Advisory Committee, Presidential Committee on Aging Society and Population Policy, and Chairperson of the Aging Society Task Force under the Economic, Social, and Labor Council. Currently, he also serves as the head of the Population Cluster at the Center for Future Strategies at Seoul National University.
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Yoon-sang KimFormer 2nd Vice Minister of Economy and Finance
He served as the 2nd Vice Minister of Economy and Finance, overseeing government budgets and fiscal policies. He graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in Business Administration and earned a master's degree in Public Administration from the same university. He later obtained a Ph.D. in Economics from Michigan State University. He began his public service career in 1992 after passing the 36th Higher Civil Service Examination. Since then, he has held key positions at the Ministry of Economy and Finance, including Director-General of the Budget Office, Spokesperson, Director-General of Public Policy, and Fiscal Management Officer. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in establishing a framework for sound fiscal management by promoting the introduction of fiscal rules. After serving as the 38th Administrator of the Public Procurement Service, he was appointed as the 2nd Vice Minister of Economy and Finance.
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Kyo-eon ShimPresident of Korea Research Institute for Human Settlements
He is an expert in urban and real estate studies, having earned his bachelor¡¯s, master¡¯s, and doctoral degrees in Urban Engineering from Seoul National University. Previously, he served as a professor in the Department of Real Estate at Konkuk University, where he also held roles such as a member of the Housing Policy Deliberation Committee and the Housing Supply Innovation Committee under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport. In 2022, he contributed to real estate policy development as the head of the Real Estate Task Force (TF) for the Economic Division of the Presidential Transition Committee. He has authored several notable books, including 'The Madness Experiment, The Market Strikes Back', 'Space Creates Customers', and 'Why Do Only Some People Profit from Real Estate?'.
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Won-jae LeePresident of the Real Estate Research Institute∙Former Vice Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport
He is President of the Korea Real Estate Research Institute and a leading expert in housing and land policy. He graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in Business Administration and began his public service career in 1986 after passing the 30th Higher Civil Service Examination. Lee has held key positions in the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (formerly the Ministry of Construction and Transportation), including Director of Housing Policy, Director of Land Policy, and Director-General of Construction Policy. In 2015, he served as Secretary for Land, Infrastructure, and Transport Affairs in the Presidential Office and later took on the role of Administrator of the Multifunctional Administrative City Construction Agency, overseeing the development of Sejong City as the administrative capital. From 2019, he served as Commissioner of the Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority, where he led investment promotion and economic development projects in the region. He also served as the 1st Vice Minister of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport.
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Young-jin ChoiCo-chairperson of Senior Army ¡¤ Professor of Political Science and International Studies at Chung-Ang University
He is a political scientist specializing in Korean politics. For over 20 years, he has been fascinated by war and now dedicates more time to studying national defense than Korean politics. As his reputation grew, he was invited to serve as a development advisory member for the Army, Navy, Air Force, the ROK-US Combined Forces Command, and the Republic of Korea Joint Chiefs of Staff. His publications include "War and Art" (2016) and "The World of War" (2022), and he has lectured on "War Strategy" at Edaily TV. In 2023, witnessing the military manpower shortage, he joined with senior colleagues to establish the "Senior Army," a group that voluntarily declares enlistment in times of national crisis. He hopes that these healthy seniors can help alleviate the military service burden on young people. He aims to usher in an era of "Well Graying," in which seniors move beyond the pursuit of personal well-being to take the initiative in contributing and making sacrifices for the nation and society.