Discussions on a special law to promote the physical artificial intelligence (AI) industry have begun in the National Assembly, with differing opinions emerging regarding the proposed 'performance certification' system. While industry representatives express concerns that it may lead to new regulations, the office of Representative Hwang Jeong-a of the Democratic Party, who introduced the bill, describes it as a measure to ensure corporate reliability in areas lacking existing safety standards.
According to the National Assembly and industry sources, the 'Special Law on the Promotion and Support of Physical AI Development,' introduced by Hwang, was submitted to the National Assembly's Science, Technology, Information, Broadcasting and Communications Committee on July 8. The government is currently gathering and coordinating opinions from relevant ministries. A government official stated, 'We are conveying the government's opinions regarding the bill to the National Assembly.'
The bill aims to support the entire process from research and development (R&D) to demonstration and commercialization of physical AI. It includes the establishment of a Physical AI Development Promotion Committee under the Prime Minister, designation of pilot areas, construction of training data, performance certification, and regulatory exceptions. The criteria, targets, and methods for performance certification are delegated to presidential decree.
Industry concerns center on the performance certification system. The bill allows the Minister of Science and ICT to certify the safety and performance of physical AI systems. It stipulates that if a system does not meet certification standards or if defects are found, the certification can be revoked or corrective actions mandated.
Industry representatives point out that this new certification system could lead to increased burdens on companies. One industry source remarked, 'Physical AI has already been introduced through contracts and agreements among private companies, and if new legal obligations are added, companies will have more factors to consider. It raises questions about whether government intervention in areas that can be judged by the private sector will benefit industrial promotion.'
In response, Hwang's office emphasized that performance certification is not a regulation but a voluntary provision. A spokesperson stated, 'Performance certification applies only in cases where there are no existing safety standards and does not impose obligations on all businesses. It aims to provide options for businesses seeking to demonstrate safety and performance.'
The office believes it is more appropriate to reflect industry and expert opinions through the Physical AI Promotion Committee to gradually establish sector-specific standards rather than including specific safety standards in the law at this early stage of the industry. Given the rapid pace of technological advancement, specifying detailed standards in legislation could reduce the flexibility of the system, which is why the structure is designed to clarify standards through presidential decree and committee review.
Experts advise that the design process for the performance certification system should adequately reflect the characteristics of different industries. Choi Kyung-jin, a professor at Gachon University and president of the Korean AI Law Society, noted, 'Physical AI encompasses a wide range of technologies and applications. It is essential to consider the characteristics and risk levels of various fields such as manufacturing, logistics, and autonomous driving.'
He added, 'One of the reasons the automotive industry has been able to develop is due to a strict self-certification system. It is necessary to consider a self-certification approach for physical AI as well.'
Choi Jae-sik, a distinguished professor at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), also suggested that to enhance the effectiveness of the bill, the purpose and scope of performance certification need to be clearly defined and meticulously designed.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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