Seoul: The ruling Democratic Party (DP) alongside the government emphasized the importance of an active fiscal policy and investment in future industries to bolster the nation's economic growth, during a consultative meeting on the upcoming 2027 budget. DP floor leader Han Byung-do highlighted the necessity of focusing fiscal efforts on securing leadership in future industries, urging the government to prioritize budget allocation strategically, with a focus on youth support, region-led growth, and future industries.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Rep. Kwon Chil-seung, the DP's chief policymaker, echoed Han's sentiments by advocating for strategic investments in artificial intelligence (AI) to position South Korea among the world's top three AI powerhouses. Kwon emphasized that the 2027 budget should not only support economic growth but also facilitate the nation's transformation, suggesting investment in key sectors such as bio, culture, defense, and energy.
Budget Minister Park Hong-geun explained the government's fiscal strategy, which aims to support economic growth through active fiscal management with a goal of creating an "irreplaceable South Korea." Park stated that the government plans to utilize the "future response fund" to channel increased tax revenue from the semiconductor boom into strategic investments, rather than short-term expenditures.
President Lee Jae Myung had previously declared that the government intends to draft a record-high budget of approximately 800 trillion won (US$540 billion) for the upcoming year. This budget will utilize additional tax revenue anticipated from the ongoing semiconductor boom to form the future response fund, intended for investment in future industries, youth policies, and regional development.