We must introduce AI into manufacturing sectors such as shipbuilding, semiconductors and automobiles to create synergy. In particular, small and midsize corporations should introduce and use AI in line with their goals and strategies.
Cho Sung-bae, Chairperson of the AI Science and Technology Committee at The Korean Academy of Science and Technology (KAST), regarded as a leading AI authority in Korea, delivered a keynote speech on Korea's AI-based innovation strategy at the SME AX Leaders Forum held at the Shilla Hotel in Jangchung-dong, Seoul, on the 26th. He presented a strategy for AI transformation (AX·AI Transformation) for small and midsize corporations, which form the foundation of how to apply AI technology to Korea's manufacturing industry.
First, Commissioner Cho defined AX as fundamentally innovating work methods and business models by strategically introducing AI technology into corporations and organizations. He went on to say, The reality is that we cannot catch up with foundational AI technologies, adding, We must introduce AI into manufacturing sectors we are good at, such as shipbuilding, semiconductors and automobiles, to create synergy. He also emphasized, It is important to build an AI computing center and establish a communications system that multiple institutions and corporations can use, and We need to foster AI convergence talent capable of doing this.
Cho said, AI that understands our language and cultural context, and sovereign AI that resolves reliance on foreign technologies and data sovereignty issues, is also important.
Cho emphasized the AX strategy for small and midsize corporations. Strategic adoption is more important than anything else, he said, adding, It is important to introduce AI strategically with a clear purpose that identifies the difficulties small and midsize corporations face and can solve their challenges. He added, You should also verify the business goals and the return on investment (ROI).
Cho said, Decisions that have been made based on entrepreneurs' experience and intuition can be made for company growth by objectifying data with AI, adding, Ultimately, corporations can achieve business innovation by using AI to develop new products, among other things.
Cho also said, As AI takes on work done by people, ethics and security issues may surface and must be considered, adding, We should also build a socioeconomic system, including launching an AI safety lab that can control such issues.