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Photo = Yonhap news |
[Alpha Biz= Kim Sangjin] Lee Hae-jin (58), the founder of Naver, is set to return to the board of directors as its chairman, after stepping down seven years ago to focus on the company’s global expansion.
Industry experts speculate that Lee’s return is aimed at boosting Naver’s artificial intelligence (AI) business. One tech insider remarked, “The founder felt a strong sense of urgency, especially while monitoring global AI developments in the US and China. If Naver doesn’t find a breakthrough now, it could be left behind forever.” This sense of crisis seems to have led him to take matters into his own hands and lay the foundation for the next decade of Naver’s growth.
According to a report by The Chosun Ilbo on Tuesday, the Naver board is expected to propose Lee Hae-jin’s return as an inside director at this week’s shareholder meeting. If approved at the March general meeting, Lee is expected to assume the role of board chairman.
A Naver spokesperson commented, “We cannot confirm anything at this time.”
Following his return, Naver plans to strengthen its AI capabilities. Last year, the company teamed up with Saudi Arabia’s SDAIA to develop a sovereign AI based on the Arabic language. This partnership is expected to drive enhancements to the HyperCLOVA X AI model and expand Naver’s AI ecosystem through collaborations with big tech companies like Nvidia and Intel.
Alphabiz Reporter Kim SangJin(letyou@alphabiz.co.kr)
