“We will develop Saemangeum into a future industrial hub for South Korea, integrating renewable energy, AI data centers, robotics, and hydrogen industries.”
Jang Jae-hoon, Vice Chairman of Hyundai Motor Group, made this statement on October 29 during a meeting held at the Comprehensive Support Center for the Saemangeum Energy Convergence Complex, organized by the Democratic Party's Mega Growth Special Committee.
The Mega Growth Special Committee was established by the Democratic Party on August 31 to discuss three major mega projects: semiconductors, AI data centers, and physical AI, along with policies to support balanced national development.
During the meeting, Jang provided updates on the progress of the Saemangeum AI Valley project and shared insights on challenges for future success.
He stated, “Since announcing our 9 trillion won investment in Saemangeum, we have been advancing our planned projects without delay. If the government and National Assembly provide their support and attention, more companies will invest in Saemangeum, leading to the creation of new jobs and an industrial ecosystem that enhances South Korea's future industrial competitiveness.”
Earlier in February, Hyundai Motor Group announced plans to develop facilities on approximately 340,000 pyeong of land in Saemangeum, including an AI data center (58 trillion won), a robotics manufacturing and parts cluster (4 trillion won), an electrolysis plant (10 trillion won), solar power facilities (13 trillion won), and an AI hydrogen city (4 trillion won).
Since then, the company has established a dedicated organization and streamlined its project management system. Last month, it set up a special purpose company (SPC) for large-scale energy supply, which is a key component of the Saemangeum AI Valley project. Additionally, discussions are underway with Jeonbuk National University to establish a contract department for nurturing physical AI talent and to transition education programs at Meister and specialized high schools in collaboration with the Jeonbuk Office of Education.
Meanwhile, Hyundai Motor Group aims to begin construction of the Saemangeum AI data center and solar power facilities next year, with a target completion date of 2029. The AI data center is planned to serve as a critical infrastructure supporting the development of physical AI technologies, including autonomous driving and robotics.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.