Major South Korean companies have kicked off 2025 with no shortage of ambition, highlighting their goals for stable growth and innovation during their annual New Year ceremonies, known as 시무식. Key figures from the pharmaceutical and food industry have expressed their commitments to adapting and transforming their operations to meet the demands of the future.
Pharmaceutical giants like 삼일제약 and 신신제약 have actively shared their visions for the upcoming year. 허승범, Chairman of 삼일제약, emphasized the company's aspirations to evolve as a mid-sized player within the industry. "The new year brings hope, and I believe our collective efforts will continue to enable 삼일제약 to grow," he stated during the 시무식 held at the company’s headquarters on January 2. Highlighting the importance of strengthening global partnerships and investments, 허 expressed gratitude for the hard work of employees and set high expectations for the company’s performance.
Meanwhile, 신신제약 held its 시무식 at its research center, where CEO 이병기 announced significant achievements, including surpassing 1 trillion won ($870 million) in sales. "This year, we will leverage our strengths and focus on aggressive marketing strategies through the 신신파스 플렉스 series," he noted, hinting at plans for enhanced production capabilities and stability. Through the integration of automated facilities at their 세종 factory, the company anticipates achieving greater efficiency and maintaining quality supply amid rising demands.
Similarly, 다산제약 showcased its ambitions to become globally recognized as a top-class CDMO. CEO 류형선 commenced the new year with motivational remarks about the company’s commitment to realizing its vision. "We are taking significant steps forward to not only set our targets but also to actualize them effectively," he stated during their 시무식, indicating the company’s determination to be seen as a responsible partner to those relying on their healthcare solutions.
On the other hand, 안국약품 also aims high, with CEO 박인철 sharing plans to achieve 5 trillion won ($4.36 billion) in revenue, thereby breaking through to the top tier of the pharmaceutical industry. Emphasizing integrity, trust, and respect as core values, 박 stressed the importance of communication within the organization and raised confidence about maintaining double-digit growth against economic uncertainties. "I believe we can achieve additional growth of 10% this year," he declared, indicating his strategy to shift to more egalitarian organizational practices.
Further afield, the 공사 sector is not lagging behind. The 대구도시개발공사 also held its 시무식, focusing on the theme of integrity within its operations, as CEO 정명섭 outlined the need for transparent governance and optimal performance evaluations. He pledged to create trust among the citizens through accountable administration, promoting ethical practices as part of the organizational culture.
At 하림, another leading food conglomerate, the New Year’s event took on a charitable tone as they organized their annual ‘Love Blood Donation’ campaign. The initiative, which has been active for 14 years, aims to address seasonal blood shortage issues and showcases the company's commitment to community welfare. 하림 CEO 정호석 reflected on the importance of such corporate social responsibility initiatives as part of being actively engaged with the community. "We want to continue growing alongside society and fulfilling our responsibilities as corporate citizens,” he remarked.
The 다산제약 시무식 highlighted the commitment to adapt and grow amid industry challenges, signaling optimism wrapped within practical strategies. "The year of the ‘blue snake’ is full of potential. Let’s work hard together to realize our goals," urged 류형선, aligning ambition with community health and corporate duty.
The upcoming year is seeing promising statements aimed at resilience and proactive steps across sectors, as South Korean companies prepare to navigate economic uncertainties with well-laid strategies and hopeful aspirations. Each organization is not just focusing on profit, but equally on how they can contribute positively to employee welfare, community needs, and sustainable practices.
Despite facing challenges such as fluctuated markets and regulatory scrutiny, these institutions remain committed to fostering innovation, retaining competitive edge, and promoting ethical practices. The fervor displayed during these New Year ceremonies sets the tone for what could be another pivotal year for the South Korean business sector.