MSIT Hosts Korea-Latin America & Caribbean Digital Ministerial Conference 2024

   - Discussions focused on advancing innovation and inclusiveness for a digital society in the future with 10 Latin American countries- Signing of an MOU between MSIT and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for collaboration in science, technology, and the digital sectorOn Wednesday, October 30, the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Yoo Sang-im, hereinafter referred to as “MSIT”) successfully held the 4th Korea-Latin America & Caribbean Digital Ministerial Conference at the Sofitel Ambassador Hotel in Seoul. This marked the first ministerial conference since COVID-19, making it a significant occasion to strengthen digital cooperation with Latin American and Caribbean countries after a 7-year pause.The Latin American and Caribbean region, home to approximately 650 million people and a GDP of $6.25 trillion (6.21% of global GDP in 2022), is an essential market rich in energy, minerals, and food resources. Its importance as a production base for the North American market continues to grow. With many Latin American and Caribbean countries accelerating digital transformation and recognizing Korea as a key partner in this endeavor, there is substantial potential for mutual cooperation, creating new opportunities for Korean companies in the region.This conference, the first since the third ministerial meeting held in Busan in September 2017, was a particularly meaningful occasion. High-level representatives from 10 Latin American and Caribbean countries—including ministers, vice ministers, ambassadors, IDB representatives, and experts—gathered to discuss digital cooperation strategies.* Previous Meetings:The 1st Korea-Latin America & Caribbean ICT Ministerial Forum (October 2013, Seoul), the 2nd Korea-Latin America & Caribbean ICT Ministerial Forum (September 2015, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic), and the 3rd Korea-Latin America & Caribbean ICT Ministerial Meeting (September 2017, Busan)** Participating Countries: Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Peru, Guatemala, Ecuador, Panama, Uruguay, Argentina, Colombia, ChileKorea has previously shared exemplary digital transformation practices with Latin American and Caribbean countries, including initiatives in the digital economy, digital infrastructure, broadband, digital education platforms, and e-government development. These efforts have yielded tangible results in the region, helping to build ICT infrastructure and bridge the digital divide, which has positively influenced Korean companies’ business expansions into the region. Notable examples include the Latin American ICT Education Center (CEABAD) established in 2014, the Global Cybersecurity Center for Development (GCCD) in 2015, and a telecommunications infrastructure project in Nicaragua in 2017.During the conference, MSIT renewed an MOU with the IDB to strengthen the cooperation platform, supporting the expansion of digital infrastructure and adoption of innovative technologies in the region. Key elements of the MOU include sharing best practices, promoting digital infrastructure, enhancing capacity and governance, networking, and personnel exchanges. The MOU aims to create a sustainable and long-term partnership with Latin American and Caribbean countries in the digital transformation sector.※ (IDB Cooperation Project) Using the IDB trust fund, Korea operates a Knowledge Sharing Program (KSP) that provides technical cooperation, policy consultation, joint consulting, and case studies to share Korea's best practices.In his opening remarks, Minister Yoo introduced achievements of economic and social development driven by digital technologies and the Korean government's strategy to become one of the world's top three countries in AI, which was presented by President Yoon Suk Yeol last month, while also sharing the importance of enacting the AI Act. He also emphasized that digital transformation requires not only technological innovation but also expanded digital inclusivity to positively impact economies and societies.The ministerial conference provided an opportunity for exchange of policy visions and experiences among participating countries, focusing on improving digital connectivity for all, enhancing capacity, and building an innovation ecosystem through new technologies. During a cybersecurity expert session, Korean cybersecurity policies and technological achievements were shared, establishing a foundation for strengthened digital security cooperation with Latin American and Caribbean countries.The Statement of the chair, adopted as an outcome of the conference, emphasized enhancing digital connectivity, developing an inclusive digital economy, and achieving a safe and sustainable digital transformation through new technologies. This statement is expected to contribute to the establishment of sustainable digital economies in Latin America and the Caribbean.Minister Yoo concluded by stating, “MSIT will proactively contribute to strengthening digital policy capabilities and bridging the digital divide by sharing Korea's policy experience,” adding that “Korea and Latin American & Caribbean countries can be invaluable partners in the journey of digital transformation.”For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: 82-44-202-4034, E-mail: [email protected]) of the Ministry of Science and ICT. Please refer to the attached PDF.

The 17th ICT Strategy Committee Meeting Held

- A new three-year cloud policy has been outlined to support the domestic cloud market, aiming to grow to KRW 10 trillion annually in the AI era.- As a key follow-up measure of the AI Seoul Summit (May 2024), the AI Safety Institute will be established in November to lead global research on AI safety and foster international cooperation.- Following the announcement of ‘Digital Strategy of Korea’ (September 2022), 26 government agencies have implemented over 200 policy tasks in the past two years.The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT, led by Minister Yoo Sang-im) held the 17th ICT Strategy Committee meeting on October 18 at 2:00 PM at the Presidential Advisory Council on Science & Technology in Seoul.*ICT Strategy Committee: Established under the Special Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Technology, Vitalization of. Convergence, this is a decision-making body for policies in the ICT sector, composed of 25 members including the Prime Minister, ministers of related ministries, and private sector members.Since the current administration took office, it has pursued new policy paradigms suitable for the digital age, aiming to lead the global digital transition through initiatives such as the announcement of the New York Initiative (September 2022), the Digital Strategy of Korea (September 2022), the Paris Initiative (June 2023), and the establishment of the Digital Bill of Rights (September 2023).In particular, as AI is emphasized as a key technology shaping national economic and security outcomes, the government has placed AI at the forefront of its national agenda. It has introduced the AI-Semiconductor Initiative (April 2024) and hosted the AI Seoul Summit (May 2024), which resulted in the “Seoul Declaration,” a high-level declaration on global AI governance. Last month, Korea also established the National Artificial Intelligence Committee, a top governance body based on public-private cooperation aimed at consolidating national innovation capabilities and positioning the country as one of the AI G3.At this meeting, the committee discussed three key agenda items:(1) Reviewing and approving the 4th Basic Plan for Cloud Computing (2025-2027), which sets the three-year policy direction for cloud computing, a critical infrastructure for AI.(2) Assessing the progress made in implementing the Digital Strategy of Korea, and discussing future policy directions.(3) Sharing and gathering feedback on the establishment and operation plans for the AI Safety Institute.1. Cloud Strategy for the AI Era (4th Basic Plan for Cloud Computing, 2025-2027)In a time when AI is driving unprecedented economic, social, and security transformations, cloud computing has become the essential infrastructure for AI. Countries around the world are making significant efforts in this domain, recognizing both the challenges and opportunities for their cloud industries. Korea is at a critical juncture where a bold and definitive strategy is required to ensure its cloud industry's future.The global cloud market is expanding rapidly due to advancements in AI. As AI and cloud computing converge, the competitive landscape is being reshaped. Since the enactment of the world’s first Cloud Act in 2015, Korea's cloud industry has seen quantitative growth, driven by policy and institutional support. However, Korea's overall cloud adoption rate remains low, and its technological and infrastructure competitiveness, as well as its global strategies, need further strengthening to keep pace with the demands of the AI era.In response, the government has outlined three key policy directions:① Shift towards AI-focused, globally competitive strategies suitable for the AI era.② Secure technological and infrastructure competitiveness by leveraging growth potential.③ Support a private sector-led ecosystem, aligning the domestic cloud market with global standards while enhancing private companies' capabilities.To achieve these goals, the government will focus on three key initiatives: expanding cloud adoption, enhancing cloud competitiveness, and activating cloud ecosystem.First, full-scale cloud adoptionCloud-based AI digital textbooks will be introduced in the education sector, while the use of AI and cloud technologies will be promoted in high-impact sectors, such as finance, through the relaxation of network separation regulations. This will greatly expand the scope of innovation that the public can experience.In addition, the government will introduce three major institutional reforms to support full adoption of private cloud services: (1) Incorporating cloud adoption rates into public institution evaluations and making standard templates for private cloud orders publicly available.(2) Prioritizing the use of private cloud and SaaS from the planning stages of new or reconstructed information systems. (3) Enhancing the digital service procurement system to promote private cloud adoption across public sectors.Second, enhancing cloud competitivenessAs AI computing infrastructure becomes central to cloud competitiveness, the government will support key industries in this AI-driven cloud era, including domestic AI semiconductors and computing infrastructure.Key initiatives include:(1) Launching the K-CLOUD project, which will span R&D, demonstrations, and collaborations to develop ultra-fast, low-power domestic AI semiconductors and apply them to data centers.(2) Enhancing support for AI computing infrastructure based on the needs of industry, academia, and research institutions.(3) Establishing a large-scale national AI computing center through a public-private partnership to meet rapidly growing demand.The government will also restructure its support policies to focus on:➀ Supporting promising companies,➁ Providing concentrated assistance, and➂ Facilitating global expansion.The government will identify promising SaaS companies and provide comprehensive support for the development, improvement, commercialization, and global expansion of AI SaaS. Additionally, the cloud voucher system will be restructured, focusing on more concentrated support, increasing annual funding from KRW 10-20 million to KRW 60-80 million.Third, activating the cloud ecosystemThe government will encourage private investment and foster a transition to a private sector-led ecosystem. (1) The government will explore expanding tax credits for AI and cloud-related investments (specifics such as fields, levels, and scope will be discussed with relevant institutions).(2) An AI Innovation Fund (AI and SaaS innovation fund) will be created, and a SaaS Conversion Support Center will be established to help software companies transition to SaaS, facilitating the move to a private sector-led SaaS ecosystem.(3) It will focus on developing a workforce skilled in cloud technologies to meet private sector needs and keep pace with rapid technological changes.Furthermore, to promote the AI data center industry, which is becoming increasingly critical, the government will conduct regular surveys, enhance domestic infrastructure, and operate testing beds. The Cloud Security Assurance Program (CSAP) will be continuously updated to balance fostering competition with ensuring cooperation among domestic and international cloud providers. The government will also support domestic companies’ efforts to expand globally through strategic partnerships.The government acknowledges the activation of the cloud industry in the AI era as a national priority and will collaborate with relevant ministries to rapidly implement its cloud strategy.2. 2025 ICT Promotion and Convergence Activation PlanSince the current administration took office, its first digital strategy, the Digital Strategy of Korea (announced in September 2022), was established with the goal of creating a globally leading digital Korea in partnership with its citizens. This strategy sets out five main objectives:(1) Secure world-class digital capabilities,(2) Expand the digital economy,(3) Create an inclusive digital society,(4) Foster a collaborative digital platform government, and(5) Promote a culture of digital innovation.To achieve these objectives, 26 government agencies are currently pursuing more than 200 policy tasks. Key initiatives include: Building and providing access to high-quality big data for AI learning that would otherwise be difficult for private companies to acquire (833 types of data by 2024). Supporting SMEs by offering high-performance AI computing infrastructure, which has led to reduced development time by an average of 4.5 months and annual cost savings of about KRW 30 million KRW for 2,365 companies and schools over the past two years (2022–2023).To cultivate essential digital talent, the government has: Operated graduate schools focused on AI, semiconductors, cybersecurity, and the metaverse. Expanded the Software-Centered University program from 44 institutions in 2022 to 58 by 2024.In response to increasing industry demand, the government has also expanded the K-Digital Training program* to 21 fields by 2024 (up from 12 in 2022), covering next-generation displays, semiconductors, bio-health, and other emerging technologies.*A program where companies directly design training courses to develop highly skilled digital professionals.Efforts to spread digital technology across all industries—including culture, healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture—are ongoing. For example, autonomous cultural guide robots have provided 900,000 commentary services since 2022. Additionally, digital transformation initiatives for SMEs have led to significant improvements in productivity and product quality (companies adopting smart factories experienced an average productivity increase of 29.0% and a 42.1% improvement in product quality).The government is focusing on public safety with measures like the implementation of an AI flood forecasting system and a flood alert navigation service. To streamline public services, it aims to eliminate paper documents for applications such as maternity and parenting allowances, targeting 421 services by the end of 2024 and 1,498 services by 2026.To continue these efforts and build on past achievements, the government has developed an implementation plan for the Digital Strategy of Korea in 2025. The focus for 2025 will be to complete key digital strategy tasks and update existing policies to deliver tangible outcomes to the public. As part of this plan, the government has outlined five major strategies and 255 detailed tasks.Key tasks include: Launching major projects next year that have passed preliminary feasibility studies or been exempted from such requirements, including the development of K-Cloud technology, low-orbit satellite communication technology, and the Quantum Science and Technology Flagship Project. Continuing to foster digital talent by expanding specialized programs in AI and semiconductors at gifted and science high schools, and increasing the number of graduate schools focused on emerging technologies like AI and semiconductors. Sending digital export delegations to high-demand markets such as ASEAN, the Americas, and the Middle East to support the global expansion of Korean digital companies.Additionally, the government will prioritize projects that allow citizens to experience the benefits of digital technology in their daily lives. For instance, the National Medical Data Brokerage Platform (Health Information Highway), which connects to top-tier hospitals, will expand from 26 hospitals in 2024 to all 47 by 2025, enabling patients to access medical data from various institutions through a single platform.The introduction of AI digital textbooks will also begin in 2025, supporting teachers' lesson planning and offering personalized learning for students. These textbooks will first be introduced for subjects such as mathematics, English, and information, with plans for further expansion.The government will also launch the Benefit Notification Service, which will proactively inform citizens of public services they are eligible to receive. A pilot version will roll out in early 2025, with full implementation planned for 2026.The government is committed to using digital technology to deliver visible results that citizens can experience firsthand and will continue to pursue these tasks swiftly and efficiently.3. Plan for the Establishment and Operation of the AI Safety InstituteAs AI technology rapidly develops and spreads, concerns about its technical limitations, misuse, and the expansion of AI autonomy have grown, raising both existential and potential risks. At the AI Seoul Summit in May 2024, the need for national-level AI safety research and global cooperation was highlighted, leading to discussions on establishing the AI Safety Institute as a key agenda item. Korea, as the host of the summit, is committed to advancing the principles of the Seoul Declaration and will establish the institute as a follow-up measure to assess and research AI safety. The institute will also foster collaboration with major AI safety institutes worldwide.※"Korea will also establish an AI Safety Institute to join the global network aimed at enhancing AI safety worldwide."(Statement by President Yoon Suk Yeol at the AI Seoul Summit, May 21, 2024)The AI Safety Institute will promote safe AI development and usage, boost international cooperation on AI safety, and establish global standards. In the long term, the institute aspires to become a world-leading AI safety research organization.To prepare, the government conducted visits to AI safety institutes in key countries (UK, US, Japan) between May and June 2024 to gain insights into their roles, safety evaluation methods, and operations. With input from domestic experts through the AI Safety Institute Advisory Committee (July 2024) and the AI Safety Institute Preparation Committee (since September 2024), the government has carefully defined the institute's vision, functions, and operational strategies.The AI Safety Institute will be established under the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) and will consist of three departments: AI safety policy, evaluation, and technology. The government is recruiting an expert with both AI knowledge and international experience as the institute’s first director. The institute will gradually secure a staff of around 30 researchers and will be based at the Pangyo Global R&D Center to facilitate the recruitment of talent and collaboration with AI companies and related institutions.The institute’s vision is to become a global AI safety hub for the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on three main missions:① Enhancing the scientific understanding of AI safety,② Advancing AI safety policies and establishing regulations, and④ Supporting domestic AI companies in ensuring AI safety.To achieve these goals, the institute will carry out four key functions:1. Defining AI Risks and Evaluating AI SafetyThe institute will identify major AI risks that need national-level management, develop safety evaluation methodologies, and establish mitigation measures. It will also build AI safety evaluation datasets and develop tools that will be available for use by companies.2. Researching AI Safety PoliciesThe institute will study AI norms and governance in major countries and international organizations, while gathering and analyzing information on key AI risks both domestically and internationally. This research will support the advancement of AI safety policies. The institute will also examine the impact of AI on the economy, society, and jobs, and devise response measures.3. Promoting AI Safety CooperationBy building an AI Safety Partnership involving industry, academia, and research institutions, the institute will promote cooperation in AI safety policy and technology research. As a key player in global AI safety governance, the institute will actively collaborate with other major AI safety research institutions and international organizations.4. Conducting R&D for AI SafetyThe institute will conduct R&D to address AI-related risks, such as the loss of control over AI, and to strengthen the security and robustness of AI models. It will also work on detecting deepfakes and other advanced AI threats.The government plans to officially open the AI Safety Institute in November 2024. The institute will begin its operations by participating in the International Network of AI Safety Institutes event, set to be held in San Francisco on November 20, 2024.Yoo Sang-im, the Minister of Science and ICT, emphasized, “The next 1 to 2 years will be a golden time that will determine the success or failure of Korea’s leap to becoming a leading nation in AI and digital fields. Now is the time for the government and the private sector to join forces and mobilize all resources. We will work closely with related ministries to swiftly implement today’s discussions, such as the full adoption of cloud computing and the launch of the AI Safety Institute.”For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: 82-44-202-4034, E-mail: [email protected]) of the Ministry of Science and ICT. Please refer to the attached PDF.

Blueprint for Korea’s Leap to Become One of the Top Three Global AI Powerhouse (AI G3)

- Joint Announcement of “Policy Directions for National AI Strategies” at the 1st National AI Committee chaired by President Yoon Suk Yeol, setting the course for Korea's leap to AI G3- Unified Efforts Between Government and Private Sector to implement four nationwide “AI Flagship Projects” under the vision of “Establishing a Global AI Hub through the Leap to AI G3” (Project 1) Expand advanced GPU capacity by 15 times and support the commercialization of domestic AI semiconductors, including the establishment of the “National AI Computing Center” (Project 2) Stimulate private investment of KRW 65 trillion in the AI sector over four years (2024-2027), with government initiatives to encourage this growth (Project 3) Drive a nationwide AI transformation to achieve an AI adoption rate of 70% in industries and 95% in the public sector by 2030 (Project 4) Establish robust AI safety and security capabilities early on to take the lead in global AI governance- Outline of Policy Directions across four key areas of the AI ecosystem: (1) Fostering Startups and Talent, (2) Innovating Technology and Infrastructure, (3) Creating an Inclusive and Fair Environment, and (4) Securing Global LeadershipThe Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), led by Minister Yoo Sang-im, announced that on September 26th, the “Policy Directions for National AI Strategies” was unveiled at the 1st meeting of the National AI Committee, chaired by President Yoon Suk Yeol and held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul.Key Summary of the “Policy Directions for National AI Strategies”1. Background and SignificanceThe world is rapidly entering the AI era, marked by an unprecedented and expansive revolution. AI is no longer just a technological advancement; it is driving a profound shift that reshapes national economies and security. Major nations like the U.S., China, and the EU are racing to accelerate AI innovation and establish global leadership, viewing AI as crucial to their national survival.Since the current government took office, Korea has placed AI at the forefront of its agenda and launched President-led initiatives such as the “New York Initiative” (Sept. 2022), “Paris Initiative” (June 2023), “Digital Bill of Rights” (Sept. 2023), “AI-Semiconductor Initiative” (April 2024), and the “AI Seoul Summit” (May 2024). These efforts aim to boost AI competitiveness and shape global standards.Korea has developed a robust AI software ecosystem, producing several indigenous generative AI models, and boasts world-class semiconductor memory and manufacturing capabilities. However, as competition intensifies due to big tech companies with immense capital, there is a growing need for a paradigm shift in AI policies. Notably, Korea ranks third globally in generative AI models, with 11 developed domestically, following the U.S. (64) and China (42) as of July 2024 (source: EPOCH AI).Recognizing AI’s critical role in the next 30 years, the "Policy Directions for National AI Strategies" was created to provide a blueprint for Korea’s emergence as an AI G3 powerhouse, building on the country’s experiences from the digital revolution and the combined expertise of both public and private sectors.2. Shift in Policy ParadigmBy analyzing the successes and shortcomings of current AI policies, as well as considering the global AI market landscape and Korea’s potential, the policy aims to enhance AI innovation capabilities while addressing existing gaps with targeted support. The government will move beyond merely expanding the initial AI infrastructure to focus on scaling and integrating systems that private entities find difficult to build independently. In addition to direct investment, the government intends to greatly improve the landscape for private AI investments. Moreover, the government will establish AI as part of the national infrastructure, fostering transformation across all sectors and support public-private partnerships to help domestic companies venture into global markets.3. Vision and Implementation StrategyThe “Policy Directions for National AI Strategies” envisions establishing Korea as a "Global AI Hub through the Leap to AI G3." This vision is driven by four nationwide “AI Flagship Projects” and policy directions across four key areas of the AI ecosystem: (1) Expanding Startups and Talent, (2) Innovating Technology and Infrastructure, (3) Creating an Inclusive and Fair Environment, and (4) Securing Global Leadership. Vision Establish a Global AI Hub through the Leap to AI G3 Implementation Strategies [Four AI Flagship Projects] 1. Significant Expansion of National AI Computing Infrastructure 2. Substantial Increase in Private AI Investment 3. Comprehensive National AI Transformation (AI X) 4. Securing AI Safety, Security, and Global Leadership [Four Core Policy Directions] 1. Fostering Startups and Talent 2. Innovating Technology and Infrastructure 3. Creating an Inclusive and Fair Environment 4. Securing Global Leadership Implementation Framework The National AI Committee will consolidate efforts between the government and private sector to drive these initiatives  4. Key ContentsDetails of the Four AI Flagship ProjectsSignificant Expansion of National AI Computing Infrastructure(Expand to over 2 exaflops (EF) by 2030, increasing current GPU capacity 15-fold)To bridge the current gap in AI computing infrastructure compared to major tech companies, Korea aims to expand its GPU capacity by more than 15 times by 2030, achieving over 2 exaflops. Efforts will also be made to commercialize domestic AI semiconductors. Through joint public-private investment, a “National AI Computing Center” will be established with a budget of up to KRW 2 trillion, alongside a low-interest loan program to support private sector expansion of AI computing infrastructure through 2027. This initiative aims to foster sustained private investment in AI computing infrastructure and provide world-class computing resources to companies and researchers. Furthermore, during the course of this initiative, the adoption of domestic AI semiconductors, such as NPUs (Neural Processing Units) and PIMs (Processing-In-Memory), will be promoted to nurture a specialized AI computing ecosystem in Korea, with a focus on developing and applying tailored hardware and software technologies. Moreover, efforts will be made to drive the globalization of Korea's AI computing ecosystem by supporting the export of domestic AI semiconductors through collaborations with global companies.Substantial Increase in Private AI Investment(4-year private investment totaling KRW 65 trillion from 2024 to 2027, supported by government measures to boost investments)Although private AI investment in Korea currently lags behind other major countries, a total of KRW 65 trillion in private investments will be made over the next four years (2024-2027). The government will support and incentivize these investments. As private companies expand their investments in AI technology, talent development, and computing infrastructure, the government will explore various tax benefits and expand policy finance measures, including the establishment of large-scale funds. This approach is intended to foster a virtuous investment cycle throughout the AI value chain, allowing Korea to actively engage in the growing global competition for AI dominance.Comprehensive National AI Transformation (AI X)(Expand AI adoption across all sectors to achieve 70% in industries, 95% in the public sector by 2030)Beyond limited AI applications in specific sectors, a comprehensive AI transformation will be implemented across the entire nation, covering industry, public services, society, regional development, and defense. Customized AX(AI X) plans will be created for eight key industries—such as manufacturing, finance, and medical biotechnology—that have high potential for AI adoption but currently exhibit slow transitions. To enhance public sector capabilities, the government will establish a government-wide AI platform, which will be used to develop AI-based services in 18 public domains (e.g., safety, disaster response, healthcare, etc.), resulting in tangible AI services that citizens can experience (public sector AI X). Additionally, proactive measures will be taken to address employment shifts caused by AI, strengthen protections for vulnerable workers, and introduce AI-based digital textbooks starting in 2025 to transform public education. AI-based innovations in the healthcare system will also be pursued. The establishment of regional AI innovation hubs and the formulation of military AI security policies, alongside the expansion of AI infrastructure in defense, will contribute to the widespread use of AI in national defense. Through this comprehensive AI adoption strategy, Korea aims to achieve AI adoption rates of 70% in industries and 95% in the public sector by 2030, ultimately reshaping the entire economic structure and generating an economic impact of approximately KRW 310 trillion by 2026.Securing AI Safety, Security, and Global Leadership(Take the lead in global AI governance by securing AI safety and security capabilities early on)With the global rise of risks associated with advanced AI technologies—such as deepfake crimes and cyber threats—the importance of AI safety and security is becoming increasingly apparent. To systematically address the advanced risks of AI, Korea will establish a national AI Safety Research Center in November. Additionally, efforts will be made to achieve a balanced development of AI and ensure its safety and reliability by enacting an “AI Basic Act” within the year. The values and norms outlined in the “Seoul Declaration” will be promoted globally, and international cooperation will be expanded to encourage responsible use of AI in military and security contexts. Further efforts will be made to identify and support collaborative models between domestic and international companies, establish global AI research platforms like the AI Frontier Lab, and actively pursue AI-focused Official Development Assistance (ODA) initiatives to reinforce Korea’s position as a global AI leader.Details of the Four Core Policy DirectionsFostering AI Startups and Talent to Support AI InnovationWhile AI unicorn companies are emerging globally, Korea currently lacks its own AI unicorns, and there are ongoing challenges in securing AI talent. To address this, the government aims to nurture 10 AI unicorn companies by 2030 by creating a supportive environment for specialized AI startups and promoting M&A activities. Additionally, efforts will be made to simplify and globalize AI talent development, with the goal of securing 200,000 AI experts by 2030 (up from 51,000 in 2023).2) Advancing Core AI Technologies and Innovating AI InfrastructureJoint research hubs focusing on AI semiconductors will be established to strengthen technological cooperation with leading countries. Efforts will also focus on securing competitiveness in emerging AI markets, such as on-device AI. Regulatory reforms concerning personal data will support AI innovation in new industries, and mechanisms for utilizing high-quality copyrighted content will be improved to create a conducive environment for generative AI. Furthermore, innovations in low-latency and low-power edge networks will be pursued, and laws such as the “Special Act on the Expansion of the National Power Grid” will be enacted to manage increased AI traffic and power demand.3) Establishing a Sustainable Foundation for AI Development and ExpansionTo ensure that everyone benefits from AI, the government will work towards enacting a “Digital Inclusion Act,” guaranteeing universal access to AI. Moreover, a fair competition framework will be established to support AI innovation, along with a framework to protect legitimate rights. Measures to prevent unfair discrimination and privacy violations during AI development and use will also be implemented.Establishing New Norms for the AI Era and Leading Global AI GovernanceLegal frameworks will be developed to address emerging issues in the AI era, such as the allocation of responsibility and rights for AI decisions. In addition, protections will be put in place for individuals and vulnerable groups in an era of AI-based automated decision-making. As a global AI hub, Korea will continue to expand its cooperation with leading nations and international organizations, actively taking the lead in global AI governance discussions.5. Implementation FrameworkThe newly established National AI Committee will be responsible for establishing and implementing the “National AI Strategy” by translating the policy directions into concrete and actionable tasks. To achieve this, the committee will operate specialized subcommittees that include top private-sector experts and relevant ministries, who will work together to develop detailed initiatives and implementation plans. Additionally, dedicated support teams will provide structured support to ensure the committee’s smooth and efficient operation.During the meeting, President Yoon Suk Yeol, who chairs the National AI Committee, announced, "We are embarking on a national all-out effort to achieve our ambitious goal of becoming one of the top three global AI powerhouses (AI G3)." He further highlighted the committee’s role, stating, "The National AI Committee, inaugurated today, will serve as the central platform for fostering public-private cooperation, bringing together national innovation capabilities to spearhead a critical AI transformation. Together, we will design and shape the next 30 years, driven by AI."For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: 82-44-202-4034, E-mail: [email protected]) of the Ministry of Science and ICT. Please refer to the attached PDF.