South Korean President Lee Jae Myung discussed global energy security and AI cooperation at the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, on June 17, 2025.

The meeting included G7 members and invited partner nations. President Lee highlighted the importance of stabilizing mineral supply chains and diversifying energy sources.

He proposed a greater emphasis on renewable energy and introduced an “energy highway” infrastructure that would use high-voltage direct current transmission lines. Additionally, he mentioned technologies such as energy storage systems and AI-driven smart grids to enhance energy resilience.

Regarding AI, Lee advocated for a strong global ecosystem. He highlighted the need for private sector involvement and fair distribution of AI benefits.

He noted South Korea’s position as a semiconductor hub, which supports AI-related supply chains. Lee also discussed initiatives to promote AI transformation through tax incentives and public investment.

In a separate meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Lee reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to global peace and prosperity. Guterres acknowledged the country’s contributions to issues like sustainable development and climate change.

🔗 Source: The Korea Times

🧠 Food for thought

1️⃣ Korea’s strategic positioning in critical minerals reflects economic evolution

Korea’s leadership in the Minerals Security Partnership highlights its transformation from a developing nation to a global economic powerhouse with strategic influence in supply chains.

The country’s GNI per capita rose dramatically from just $67 in 1953 to $32,115 in 2019, marking one of the most rapid economic transformations in modern history 1.

This economic evolution explains why Korea can now chair international partnerships on critical minerals, resources essential for renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and advanced electronics that drive the modern economy.

Korea’s emphasis on diversifying energy sources and securing mineral supply chains at the G7 reflects a pragmatic approach based on its own vulnerabilities as a resource-poor nation that built global leadership in technology-intensive industries.

The focus on “energy highways” and smart grids demonstrates how Korea is leveraging its technological strengths in semiconductors and IT infrastructure to address energy security challenges.

2️⃣ G7 outreach reflects the evolution of global governance structures

Korea’s participation in the expanded G7 session illustrates how this once-exclusive forum has evolved to address complex global challenges requiring broader participation.