Hankook & Company adopts English as official language for major meetings
The tire giant said the guideline aims to enhance communication efficiency, as 68 percent of the group's 50,000 employees are non-Korean.
Under the new policy, meetings must be conducted in English, including provided written materials. Additionally, English is required for internal documents and communication between overseas business sites. However, local factory workers may use both English and their native language, and external documents for government agencies and legal matters are exempt from the rule.
The new policy aligns with Chairman Cho Hyun-bum's emphasis on English as the primary language for communication, citing efficiency and strengthening the company's global operations.
'The Global Language Principle is expected to eliminate communication barriers and enhance collaboration among employees,' said Oh Yoon-jung, head of the Proactive Culture Team. 'We plan to gradually expand the mandatory use of English in decision-making.'
Since assuming office in 2021, Cho has led a data- and AI-driven transformation strategy. To support employees, the company has introduced AI-powered translation services, including an interactive AI assistant and an internal messenger. These services, launched last year, were part of Cho's AI Transformation initiative, which received government recognition in October.
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