Choi Tae-won, Chairman of SK Group, emphasized the need for joint energy purchasing and storage between South Korea and Japan. He noted that both countries have high energy import dependence and should collaborate on purchasing, storage, and utilization to enhance energy security.
After the '2026 Ulsan Forum' held at the Ulsan Exhibition and Convention Center on September 11, Choi told reporters, "If we engage in joint purchasing, storage, and usage, there is significant potential for savings and collaboration."
Choi highlighted that South Korea and Japan each import about $140 billion worth of energy annually, underscoring the necessity for cooperation. He stated, "Rather than being completely isolated as 'energy islands' and doing nothing, we need to take action to ensure energy security."
He also predicted that the scope of cooperation could extend beyond simple fossil fuel purchasing to include renewable energy, hydrogen, and nuclear power. However, he acknowledged that it would take time to translate these ideas into actual projects. Choi remarked, "We are currently exploring possibilities with various companies and continue to meet on this agenda. Energy contracts can last for 20 years, so we cannot change everything suddenly."
SK Innovation is also expanding its AI-based energy and electrification solutions in response to changes in the energy industry. Choi stated, "We are developing energy solutions using AI and electrification solutions needed for AI data centers, and we have many partners and investment plans to further expand this." He added, "As oil decreases, we will seek other solutions and utilize new locations, land, and people."
Choi reported that the 1GW Ulsan AI data center project and collaboration with global big tech companies are progressing rapidly. He mentioned, "We are continuously meeting with big tech firms, and progress is quite fast. It has been less than a year since the data center plan was announced," adding, "In particular, Ulsan has nearly reached 900MW capacity."
Choi positively assessed the level of AI application at SK Innovation's Ulsan CLX manufacturing site, which he visited the previous day. He said, "I observed how AI applications are being used at each site and how new solutions are being developed. Just because it is a traditional industry does not mean AI is not being utilized."
Choi stressed that Ulsan should become a leading model for AI transformation in manufacturing. He explained, "If Ulsan, which was once a strategically important industrial base, quickly becomes a leading model, it can serve as a good example for the spread of AI in South Korea. That is why we have continued the Ulsan Forum, and I hope more companies will participate to enhance our potential."
The 2026 Ulsan Forum, themed 'Leading AX, Smart Life Ulsan,' included Choi and other SK executives such as Kim Jong-hwa, President of SK Energy and SK Geo Centric, and Kim Won-ki, President of SK Enmove, as well as Ulsan Mayor Kim Sang-wook, Ulsan City Council Chair Lee Young-hae, and Ulsan Chamber of Commerce President Lee Yoon-cheol. This year marks the fifth Ulsan Forum, a platform for businesses and the local community to discuss sustainable growth strategies for Ulsan.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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