Korea opens AI research hub in Seoul

(Ministry of Science and ICT)

South Korea has opened a research hub for artificial intelligence (AI) technology to support global collaborative research and position itself among the top three global AI leaders.

The Ministry of Science and ICT and the Institute of Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP) held the inauguration ceremony for the National AI Research Hub at the Seoul AI Hub on Monday in Seocho District, southern Seoul.

The Seoul AI Hub, which the city plans to expand to 7,600 square meters by 2025, will host the National AI Research Hub, focusing on AI talent development and extensive industry-academia collaboration.

A total of 94.6 billion won ($68.5 million), including 44 billion won in government funds, will be invested by 2028. The government aims for the hub to become a focal point for international collaborative AI research, talent development, and a thriving ecosystem for AI-related academia and industry. A consortium comprising the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Korea University, Yonsei University, and POSTECH has been selected to establish and operate the research hub.

Typically, research with relatively higher risks will be conducted at the National AI Research Hub, and once the technology is fully developed, it will be transferred to private companies.

“The successful launch and innovative management of the National AI Research Hub will become a new milestone for AI development in our country,” Minister of Science and ICT Yoo Sang-im said. He further highlighted the urgency of establishing an AI Basic Law in the National Assembly to promote the AI industry, build a foundation of trust, and propel Korea into the global top three in AI.