Na Kyung-won calls for support for petrochemical industry

May 19, 2026, 10:40 am

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Na Kyung-won speaks during the third Asia Today K-Industry Vision Forum held at the National Assembly Library in Seoul on May 19. /Courtesy of Rep. Na Kyung-won

Na Kyung-won emphasized the strategic importance of South Korea’s refining and petrochemical industries on May 19, calling for stronger support measures to help companies adapt to rapid changes in the global market.

Speaking at the third Asia Today K-Industry Vision Forum held at the National Assembly Library in Seoul, Na described the refining and petrochemical sectors as “the rice of industry” and “the heart that has driven the Korean economy.”

She warned that the industries are facing mounting challenges ranging from global oversupply to supply-chain restructuring driven by protectionist policies and increasingly strict carbon regulations imposed as global standards.

Na said there are legitimate concerns and differing opinions regarding the pace of climate action and energy transition policies.

“Watching major powers prioritize protection of their own industries, we must listen carefully to voices calling for realistic approaches and calibrated speed adjustments rather than blindly following global trends,” she said.

At the same time, she stressed that Korea must actively respond to structural changes in the global economy.

“Energy transition is no longer just an environmental slogan. It has become an issue of economic security that determines market access and national competitiveness for an export-driven country like Korea,” she said.

Na added that Korean companies must prepare swiftly to avoid disadvantages while preserving the strong manufacturing competitiveness they have built over decades.

She also called on the petrochemical sector to use the current crisis as an opportunity to shift toward high-value specialty industries.

“The National Assembly will work to establish predictable systems and strong support networks so that people and businesses can take on challenges freely without being constrained by outdated regulations,” she said.

#Na Kyung-won #People Power Party #petrochemical industry #refining industry #K-Industry Vision Forum