Korea to launch four mega special zones for growth

Apr 16, 2026, 08:55 am

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President Lee Jae-myung speaks at the first plenary meeting of the Regulatory Reform Committee at the presidential office on April 15. / Yonhap

President Lee Jae-myung on April 15 proposed a shift toward a “negative regulation” framework to enhance global competitiveness, while outlining plans to establish four large-scale “mega special zones” focused on advanced industries such as robotics and artificial intelligence.

Speaking at the first plenary session of the Regulatory Reform Committee held at the presidential office, Lee said, “It is crucial for Korea’s economy to secure international competitiveness within the broader framework of a trading nation.” He added, “To achieve this, we need to transition to a ‘negative’ regulatory system in advanced technology and high-tech industries.”

A negative regulation system allows all activities in principle unless explicitly prohibited by law or policy.

Lee emphasized that streamlining unnecessary and inefficient regulations and aligning them with global standards is essential. He also called for consideration of large-scale regulatory special zones across regions, stressing that balanced regional development has become a necessary survival strategy for sustainable long-term growth.

However, he urged caution, referencing the 2014 Sewol ferry disaster, where relaxed regulations on vessel age were cited as one contributing factor. “Even if it is difficult, we must pursue bold but careful regulatory reform,” he said.

The government presented a blueprint to designate four major “mega special zones” as part of a broader national balanced development strategy across five major regions and three special areas.

These zones will focus on key industries including robotics, renewable energy, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and autonomous vehicles. The plan includes regulatory exemptions, simplified administrative procedures, and tailored support measures.

Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jung-kwan said the government will provide “unprecedented support packages” across seven areas — finance, taxation, talent, infrastructure, technology and startups, and institutional frameworks — to build strong industrial ecosystems within the zones.

Presidential spokesperson Jeon Eun-soo said in a briefing that a special law related to the mega zones will be enacted within the year, adding that procedures for designating the zones will be expedited following the legislation.

#Lee Jae-myung #negative regulation #mega special zones #regulatory reform #AI