Lee calls for restructuring social system to meet needs of changing population structure

President Lee Jae Myung has urged a complete overhaul of South Korea's social system to adapt to evolving demographics, highlighting artificial intelligence (AI) as a catalyst for restructuring various sectors. During a meeting of the presidential committee on population strategy, the president emphasized AI's potential to revolutionize industries, employment, education, and other fields.

South Korea is grappling with an aging population, with people aged 65 and older making up more than 21 percent of the total population, rendering it a super aged society. The president called for policies that foster both qualitative and quantitative population growth, advocating for a radical transformation of the nation's social and economic systems to align with these demographic shifts.

Key sectors like labor, welfare, employment, housing, and childcare necessitate policy improvements to address the changing population landscape. Lee underscored AI-driven innovation as a pivotal opportunity to reshape the social system, particularly in areas such as employment, education, and elderly care. In addition to population aging and low birth rates, the president cited the rise in the immigrant population and the diversification of family structures as emerging demographic trends.

The ultimate goal is to create a society where every individual can lead fulfilling lives throughout their life cycle, regardless of where they reside or with whom they share their lives. The president stressed that the key to resolving population issues lies in instilling hope in people and their families, ensuring they can grow and thrive together.