The national strategy for artificial intelligence of South Korea

October 2019

View the original document

Strategies and Action Plans

The National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence of Korea (2019), outlines a comprehensive plan to position Korea as a leading nation in the AI era. The strategy emphasises regulatory flexibility, comprehensive support for AI startups, and the creation of a skilled workforce, aiming to position Korea at the forefront of the global AI landscape.

Vision and Goals

  • Vision: To become a world leader in AI, surpassing traditional IT strengths.
  • Goals by 2030:
    • Secure world-class AI competitiveness.
    • Enhance economic and social vitality.
    • Improve the quality of life and happiness of the people.

Core Strategies and Tasks

  1. Establishment of a Global-Leading AI Ecosystem
    • AI Infrastructure Enhancement: Expand and improve data supply systems, secure high-performance computing resources, and build AI innovation clusters nationwide.
    • Securing Competitiveness in AI Technology: Focus on next-generation AI R&D, AI semiconductors, and comprehensive support for basic AI research and software.
    • Regulatory Innovation and Legal Revisions: Transition to a negative regulatory system, establish future-oriented legal systems, and support the growth of the AI industry.
    • Nurturing Global AI Start-ups: Increase investment and support throughout the life cycle of AI startups, host global events like the AI Olympics, and create a sustainable AI ecosystem.
  2. The Country that Makes the Best Use of AI
    • Nurturing World’s Best AI Talent and Educating People: Reform education to focus on SW and AI, expand AI literacy across all demographics, and create lifelong learning opportunities in AI.
    • Full-Scale Utilisation of AI: Promote AI adoption across all industries, establish an AI-oriented government, and build an inclusive job safety network.
    • Realisation of People-Centered AI: Ensure AI is used ethically, prevent dysfunction, and improve the quality of life through AI applications in public services and social innovation.

Key Initiatives

  • AI Investment Fund: Establish funds to support promising AI startups and technological advancements.
  • AI R&D Grand Challenge: A competitive event to foster innovation and solve critical national issues using AI.
  • Expansion of AI Education: Mandatory AI literacy courses for military personnel, public officials, and industry employees, with a focus on practical and interdisciplinary AI education.
  • AI-Driven Government: Transform government services to be AI-based, improving efficiency and public satisfaction.

Expected Outcomes

  • Economic Impact: Anticipated economic benefits of up to 455 trillion won by 2030 through AI-driven innovation and productivity gains.
  • Job Creation: AI is expected to create 7.3 million new jobs in Korea by 2030, offsetting the decline in traditional job sectors.
  • Global Competitiveness: Korea aims to be among the top 3 countries in AI technology competitiveness and digital competitiveness.