Recently, the South Korean government unveiled ambitious plans to reinforce its investment in artificial intelligence (AI) by creating a "National AI Committee." This initiative aims to facilitate national development in the field, with the goal of positioning South Korea as one of the top three AI leaders in the world. The move is seen as a response to advancements made by the Chinese AI startup DeepSeek, which have posed new challenges to the domestic market, prompting the government to act swiftly.

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According to a report by Bloomberg, the South Korean Ministry of Finance has announced plans to invest at least 34 trillion won (approximately $26 billion) to support research and development in critical technological sectors, including batteries and biotechnology. This significant financial commitment underscores the government’s determination to foster innovation and growth in high-tech industries.

In addition to direct investments, the government intends to establish new funds aimed at offering low-interest loans and equity purchases for companies within the high-tech sector. These measures are designed to stimulate innovation and facilitate the growth of the industry.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Finance has indicated that it will propose amendments to relevant laws in Parliament in March to facilitate the implementation of this new policy. These legislative changes will provide a framework for the government's initiatives, reflecting a broader strategy to enhance the competitive landscape for South Korean enterprises in the global market.

The establishment of the National AI Committee is a key component of the government's broader AI strategy. By consolidating efforts and resources, the committee aims to enhance collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector players, and research institutions, to drive forward the national AI agenda.

Prominent figures in the tech industry, such as OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, have already shown interest in South Korea's strategic direction. Altman recently visited the country to engage with several tech giants and discuss opportunities for collaboration in the burgeoning field of AI.

The South Korean government's focus on AI is not only a response to external pressures but also a proactive approach to securing its position in the rapidly evolving global technology landscape. By prioritizing AI development, South Korea aims to harness the potential of this transformative technology to bolster economic growth and national competitiveness.

Key Points

1. The South Korean government plans to establish a "National AI Committee" to strive to become one of the top three AI leading countries in the world.
2. The government will invest at least 34 trillion won to support the development of the high-tech industry.
3. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman visits South Korea to engage with several tech giants.
4. Legislative amendments will be proposed to facilitate the implementation of the new AI policies.