On Wednesday, June 11, 2025, a special lecture was held for executives and employees in the underground seminar room of K&P’s 2nd plant.

The lecture was delivered by Chairman Geumryong Lee, titled “Organizational Strategy and the Role of Leaders in the Age of AI.”

This was not a mere presentation, but a meaningful time to reflect together on the attitudes and competencies that executives and employees must cultivate for the sustainable growth of the company.

1. The Essence of Learning – The Difference Between ‘Study’ and ‘Learning’

In the first topic, Chairman Lee shared vivid personal experiences, including real success stories such as Homeplus and Auction.

“True learning is not just study, but the internalization of on-site experiences.”

While study involves understanding existing knowledge, learning is the process of applying that knowledge, discovering insights, and making it your own. He emphasized that genuine learning begins with curiosity, and that those who possess strong learning abilities hold greater potential for growth.

2. The Two Pillars of Corporate Growth – ‘Progress’ and ‘Evolution’

Chairman Lee stressed that two engines—progress and evolution—must work in tandem for a company to grow sustainably.

• Progress: Advancing existing technologies while maintaining the same direction

• Evolution: Shifting and adapting strategies in response to changing times

As an example, he cited Aekyung’s expansion from consumer goods into the low-cost airline industry, underscoring the necessity of flexibility and strategic transformation for long-term survival.

3. The Qualities of a Leader – Foresight and Entrepreneurial Spirit

What capabilities must leaders possess in the AI era? Chairman Lee highlighted three key qualities:

1. Ability to read the tide of change
   Leaders must be highly perceptive of market and technology shifts in order to prepare for the future.

2. Discernment in understanding people

   “Leaders must recognize altruistic individuals and identify sycophantic types.”
   He warned that sycophants—those who only seek to impress superiors while hiding their weaknesses—can harm an organization. Referencing footballer Son Heung-min, he emphasized the value of altruistic talent.

3. Genuine entrepreneurial mindset
   Rather than viewing management as mere family succession, leaders must embrace uncertainty, be willing to fail, and learn from challenges—this is the core of future-ready management.

4. Insight in Handling Information – Seeing Through the Flow of the Times

Possessing information is not enough; what matters is the ability to capture its meaning and foresee direction within the broader flow.

Quoting Alvin Toffler’s “The Wave of Wealths,” Chairman Lee underscored the importance of responding sensitively to new orders created by information. 

He also referenced the Zhuangzi anecdote ‘Fool Lives, Horse Dies (愚生馬死)’, advocating for wisdom in flowing with, not against, the tide of the times.

“Keen insight into the essence and sharp discernment of people play a decisive role in building a healthy organizational culture and enabling sustainable growth.”

5. What Kind of Organizational Structure Fits the AI Era?

In the final part of the lecture, Chairman Lee proposed a future-oriented organizational model fit for the age of AI:

• Creator: Drives technology and innovation, discovers new value

• Manager: Uses AI to streamline repetitive tasks, saving time and cost

• Consultant: Manages customer contact points, delivering “happiness” in B2C and “experience satisfaction” in B2B

This three-role framework offers a balanced approach, integrating both human and technological strengths for future organizations.

This lecture served as a valuable opportunity to reflect on how individuals and organizations should prepare for the future—and why continuous learning and flexible evolution are essential in a rapidly changing world.