Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, is expected to visit South Korea as early as next month. If the visit occurs, discussions on artificial intelligence (AI) and next-generation nuclear power are likely to be key topics.
According to the information and communication technology (ICT) industry on July 29, Gates, who is also the chairman of the Gates Foundation, has expressed his intention to meet with Prime Minister Han Seung-soo and is currently coordinating the schedule and agenda. The specific dates and details of the visit have not yet been finalized.
During his visit to South Korea last year, Gates met with government officials and business leaders to discuss collaboration in the fields of AI and small modular reactors (SMRs). He engaged in discussions with prominent figures such as Chey Tae-won, chairman of SK Group; Chung Ki-sun, chairman of HD Hyundai; and Lee Jae-yong, chairman of Samsung Electronics, exploring potential partnerships in nuclear energy, biotechnology, and AI.
If this visit materializes, it is anticipated that advanced industry collaboration discussions will resume, building on last year's conversations.
Gates is currently the founder and chairman of TerraPower, a company focused on developing next-generation nuclear power technologies. TerraPower is working on the 'Natrium' reactor, which combines molten salt-based energy storage with SMR technology, recognized for its enhanced safety and output control compared to traditional nuclear reactors.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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