[Edaily Reporter Yun Junghoon ] Naver (NAVER(035420)) has appointed Kim Seon-ho, former Deputy Minister of National Defense, as a full-time management advisor and is moving to expand its Artificial Intelligence Transformation (AX) business in the public and defense sectors.

According to industry sources on the 4th, Naver recently completed the employment screening process for former public officials regarding Mr. Kim and has decided to appoint him as a full-time management advisor. The specific start date is reportedly still being coordinated.

Industry observers believe Naver has recruited Mr. Kim—who has extensive experience in defense and government policy—to strengthen its public sector AX and Sovereign AI initiatives. Since public AI projects require not only technical expertise but also an understanding of government policy and organizational structures, he is expected to take on a policy advisory role. In particular, synergies are anticipated in defense AI and AI transformation projects for public institutions.

A graduate of the 43rd class of the Korea Military Academy, former Vice Minister Kim served as Director of Force Planning at the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Commander of the Capital Defense Command before retiring as a Lieutenant General in 2020. He subsequently served as Vice Minister of National Defense and Acting Minister of National Defense, during which time he spearheaded AI-based defense innovations, including the establishment of the Defense AI Center.