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Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) headquarters in Sacheon, Gyeongnam (Photo = KAI) |
[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] Seoul/Sacheon, September 23, 2025 – The labor union of Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) announced it will hold a rally on September 24 at 2:00 p.m. in front of the Export-Import Bank of Korea (KEXIM), calling on the bank, KAI’s largest shareholder, to take responsibility for delays in the appointment of a new CEO and to make an immediate decision.
In a statement released on September 23, the union criticized the leadership vacuum, noting that it has been nearly 100 days since the former CEO stepped down:
“This is not simply a personnel delay, but a grave issue that threatens the future of Korea’s aerospace industry.”
Concerns Over Business Instability
The union warned that the absence of leadership is disrupting key programs and finances:
Rising costs in the KF-21 fighter jet program
Severe budget shortfalls for initial mass production
Successive failures in securing new contracts in areas such as electronic warfare
“KAI is facing a triple crisis. A new CEO must be appointed quickly to restore responsible management and put the company’s finances and projects back on track,” the union said.
Urgency Ahead of ADEX 2025
The union also highlighted the upcoming ADEX 2025 international defense exhibition, cautioning that attending the event without a CEO would damage KAI’s global reputation. It stressed that the next CEO must not merely fill a seat but be an expert capable of immediately taking charge, winning contracts, and guiding the broader aerospace ecosystem.
Warning to KEXIM
Reiterating its call for swift action, the union declared:
“If KEXIM fails to make a decision, we will directly appeal to the National Assembly, government ministries, and defense authorities. If necessary, we are prepared to launch a full-scale struggle.”
Alphabiz Reporter Paul Lee(hoondork1977@alphabiz.co.kr)
