Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a future technology; it has become a core infrastructure that influences industry, economy, and national competitiveness. While generative AI has amazed the world, we are rapidly entering an era of 'physical AI' that drives robotics, autonomous vehicles, smart factories, healthcare, and logistics. In the future, a nation's competitiveness will depend not on who has the most data, but on who applies AI to real industries first. South Korea must aim to become a country that grows through AI, moving beyond merely being proficient in its use.
The second year of the Yoon Suk Yeol administration also positions AI as a key national strategy. The direction is correct, but what is now needed is action, not just declarations. Major countries have already invested hundreds of trillions of won to enter the AI supremacy competition. The United States is fostering an AI ecosystem centered around private companies, while China is transitioning its manufacturing and entire cities to AI under state leadership. Middle Eastern nations are pouring vast oil revenues into AI infrastructure and data centers. AI is no longer just an information technology policy; it is an industrial policy and a national security strategy.
We have sufficient competitive advantages. Our world-class semiconductor technology, information and communication technology (ICT), and manufacturing capabilities are strong assets in the AI era. However, if we cannot integrate these into a cohesive national strategy, the competitiveness of individual companies will not translate into national competitiveness. A comprehensive strategy that connects semiconductors, AI, data centers, power grids, renewable energy, and talent development into a single ecosystem is urgently needed.
Saemangeum should be at the center of this strategy. Saemangeum is the only space in the country that offers vast land, renewable energy, ports, and industrial complexes simultaneously. It has optimal conditions for large-scale data centers, AI research facilities, humanoid robot demonstration zones, autonomous vehicle test beds, smart agriculture, and smart logistics. We should not stop at merely creating an industrial complex. Saemangeum should be designated as a 'national physical AI special zone' to foster a space where global companies and research institutions can collaborate on technology demonstration and industrialization.
The competitiveness of the AI era ultimately stems from power and talent. Data centers require massive amounts of electricity, and the AI industry needs excellent researchers and developers to grow. We can no longer approach the expansion of renewable energy and the enhancement of power grids solely as environmental or energy policies. They must be recognized as national infrastructure for the AI industry. At the same time, we need to establish a talent development system that connects universities, companies, and research institutions to continuously produce world-class researchers and engineers.
Regulatory innovation is also essential. New technologies often clash with existing systems. Autonomous driving, medical AI, robotics, drones, and digital healthcare are still hindered by various regulations. While the world competes at speed, we must not waste time on permits and reviews. We should apply the principle of 'pre-approval and post-correction' more boldly, managing risks without stifling innovation.
AI is not just a growth strategy for specific companies. It is a national innovation tool that enhances productivity in manufacturing, boosts competitiveness in agriculture and fisheries, and reduces disparities in healthcare and education. The issue of regional extinction can also find new solutions through AI and digital technology. Ultimately, AI is a revolution that will transform the entire national system beyond just industry.
South Korea has experience standing at the center of the global economy through semiconductors. Now is the time to carry that experience into the AI era. The government must pave the way with bold investments and regulatory innovations, companies must lead the global market with technological advancements, and universities and research institutions must create a virtuous cycle of talent development. As we enter the second year of the administration, the path South Korea must choose is clear. We should not view AI merely as a future industry but embrace it as the very future of our nation. Leading the era of physical AI beyond generative AI is the new growth strategy that South Korea must achieve in the next decade.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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