As artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly reshapes production methods and social structures, humanity faces fundamental questions about its role and value. In a recent interview with our agency, Captain Kang Sang-bo, author of The Master Key and a civilization designer, stated, "The key transition in the AI era is not the enhancement of technological capabilities, but rather humanity's shift from 'method' to 'meaning.'" He emphasized the need to build a new form of civilization through this transition.
Kang has been researching and creating around the concept of 'meaning civilization' for an extended period, attempting to combine philosophical thought, personal growth, and the content industry. His notable work, The Master Key, systematically presents pathways to personal success and life direction.
He identified 'direction setting' as the most lacking capability in humans today. He warned that if people perceive AI merely as a tool, they risk missing structural changes and essence. "In a situation where AI can perform almost all tasks, if humans cannot set their own direction, they may become mere parts of the system," he said, adding that both individuals and societal structures must be able to provide direction.
Kang introduced the concept of 'meaning civilization,' distinguishing it from existing information and technological civilizations. While technological civilization focuses on 'what to create,' he argues that the AI era must shift to the question of 'should we create it at all?' He explained that technology should operate in a way that aligns more closely with human essence, moving from a 'technology-human-technology' structure to a 'human-technology-human' cyclical structure.
In terms of values, he proposed 'meaning, vivid dreams, responsibility, and LOVE' as core areas unique to humanity. He stated, "AI and robots ultimately exist to help humans get closer to these four values," asserting that these elements will become new criteria for judgment.
Kang also suggested an absolute formula for success: 'BTS × LOVE = SUCCESS.' Here, BTS represents Body, Talent, and Spirit, while LOVE signifies connection and empathy among humans. He noted, "In the AI era, traditional success criteria based on speed, efficiency, and results are being rapidly replaced by technology. Future success will depend not on performing tasks faster, but on creating deeper connections and generating meaning within them."
From a generational perspective, he defined those aged 10 to 30 as '1030 Young Stars,' labeling them as 'civilization designers.' He emphasized that unlike the older generation, which grew up under efficiency, growth, and capital-centric logic, these young individuals may struggle to gain an advantage if they compete with AI on the same terms. He stressed that the key is not to compete for efficiency but to transition toward creating direction.
On an institutional level, he proposed concepts of 'meaning finance' and 'meaning education.' He stated, "In the AI era, economic systems can operate without direct human participation," arguing that finance should shift from a production-centered focus to one centered on human values, meaning, vivid dreams, responsibility, and LOVE. However, he added that such changes would require gradual guidance from media, institutions, and government rather than individual efforts.
Regarding education, he criticized the existing system for remaining stuck in 'pre-AI' methods. Kang asserted, "Knowledge acquisition should be left to AI, while humans should focus on exploring meaning and direction." He suggested that history education should shift from rote memorization to experiential understanding, and that teachers should transition from being 'providers of answers' to 'askers of questions.'
He also warned of the risk that 'meaning' could be further diminished in a discourse centered on efficiency, growth, and capital. If society prioritizes results alone, individuals may lose their ability to judge 'why they do what they do.'
Kang remarked, "Today's younger generation stands at a crucial crossroads," stating that whether they become the architects of civilization or remain consumers within the system is a matter that transcends individual choice and will influence the direction of future society. "In the AI era, the competition is not about speed, but about direction."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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