Prime Minister Kim Min-seok Aims for Global AI Leadership

Prime Minister Kim Min-seok announced on June 24 that South Korea aims to become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI). He expressed a desire for the country to achieve top status in the physical AI sector, particularly when combined with manufacturing capabilities.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim made these remarks during a special speech at the Summer World Economic Forum (WEF) held at the Dalian International Convention Center in China. He noted, "South Korea has traditional manufacturing strengths that can be leveraged in the physical AI field."

Kim assessed that South Korea is facing simultaneous demands for an AI transformation and an energy transition. He emphasized that "AI cannot be completed with algorithms alone," stating that the country must develop infrastructure, including semiconductors, data centers, communication networks, and power grids, as well as AI applications and security systems. He highlighted South Korea's unique strengths in these areas.

Regarding the social disparities arising from the AI transition, Kim pointed out that South Korean semiconductor companies have recently seen significant profits, raising the question of how to distribute these gains. He acknowledged that there are currently no clear answers and that this is an ongoing concern. He added, "I believe it is our policy obligation to experiment with linking the outcomes of AI transformation to basic income, providing various insights to the international community regarding its advantages and disadvantages."

In conclusion, Kim stated, "South Korea aims to expand global cooperation for innovation and create an environment where businesses, investors, and researchers can grow together, contributing to human prosperity through AI. When your bold challenges combine with Korea's capabilities, large-scale innovation and prosperity will follow."