The FKI, the 'eldest brother in the business world' who returned after 5 years... Criticism of "inappropriate"

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It also drew attention that the FKI, an economic group representing large companies, was included in today's (21st) meeting.

As it was revealed that the FKI was involved in the National Nongdan incident, I couldn't see it well at the official seat of the government this time, but reporter Jae Hee-won covered what the FKI's return means.

<Reporter> The

Federation of Korean Industries, an association of large corporations, has served as the eldest in the business world.

However, in 2016, the government faced a crisis when it was revealed as a source of funds for companies and a link between politics and economy.

Samsung, Hyundai Motor, SK, and LG have left the four major groups and lost their strength.

In the current government, he was excluded from the economic delegation touring overseas, as well as from the meetings of the heads of economic groups.

The FKI showed up at the official event for the first time in five years.

In particular, in the process of preparing for the meeting, the FKI was the first to be contacted by Yoon-elect and confirmed whether other economic organizations were present, and it was interpreted that it was more than a simple comeback.

The FKI also showed a willingness to engage in active activities under the next government.

[Chang-Soo Huh/Chairman of the Federation of Korean Industries: We would like to fulfill our role in improving the strained Korea-Japan relations and strengthening relations with the US and EU.

To promote cooperation between governments by utilizing economic cooperation channels and networks possessed by the private sector…

.]

However, there are criticisms that it is inappropriate for the new government to treat the FKI, responsible for the National Nongdan incident, as the representative of the business community.

[Sang-in Park/Professor, Graduate School of Public Administration, Seoul National University: (Elected Yoon Seok-yeol) I think that he is well aware of the damage caused by the FKI more than anything else through the investigation of the state government nongdan.

(Nevertheless, using the FKI) as if it were a representative player in the entire business world is very worrisome...

.]

As President-elect Yoon Seok-yeol emphasized the autonomy of corporate activities, it is necessary to listen to and cooperate with the opinions of each group rather than empowering specific groups.

(Video coverage: Cho Chun-dong, video editing: Lee Seung-yeol)