이총리, 국가경제 발전에 기여한 기업, 단체, 유공자 포상<br /><br />South Korea's trade ministry held an annual event today to promote the importance of innovation when it comes to productivity.<br />Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon was there to present awards to companies and individuals who created jobs and contributed to society by innovating to make their businesses more productive.<br />22 individuals, 39 companies and 20 teams were recognized this year. <br />Among them, the percentage of small and mid-sized businesses climbed 6 percent from last year, making up over 70 percent of them all together.<br />During the congratulatory speech, the PM said the government has earmarked over 17 billion U.S. dollars in budget spending to rev up the R&D sector, and it's pledged to set up some 20-thousand smart factories by 2022.<br />He also vowed to significantly ease regulations on new technology and industries. <br />
