Korea Aerospace Industries Headquarters in Sacheon, South Gyeongsang Province (Photo = KAI)

 

 

[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] The labor union of Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has issued a strong statement opposing the rumored candidates for the company’s next CEO, warning of a possible full-scale strike if an external political appointee is named.



In a statement released on July 7, the union emphasized that the current leadership vacuum—following CEO Kang Goo-young’s resignation—comes at a critical juncture for both KAI and South Korea’s aerospace sovereignty. “This is a turning point that will determine the company’s identity and survival,” the union said, adding that parachute appointments catering to political interests must be firmly resisted.



Among the leading candidates, the union expressed particular concern over Ryu Kwang-soo, former KAI executive and current Vice President and Technical Advisor at Hanwha Aerospace. Ryu allegedly promoted a private defense company during his tenure at KAI and is accused of facilitating the transfer of key technical personnel from KAI to Hanwha. The union argued this contributed to the leakage of vital technologies.



Another candidate, Kang Eun-ho, former head of the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), was criticized for past misconduct allegations including improper use of business expenses and questionable relationships with the media.



By contrast, the union offered a more favorable view of Moon Sung-wook, former Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, citing his administrative experience and policy knowledge as strengths, though noting his lack of practical expertise in fixed-wing aircraft development.



The union warned that if a politically motivated “parachute” appointment is pushed through without proper vetting, it will initiate a company-wide strike. “We will not allow the return of outdated factions that previously harmed the company. The appointment of the next CEO is a litmus test for protecting KAI’s technological sovereignty and organizational independence,” the statement concluded.

 

 

 

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