"We need to reconsider whether the goals of the independent AI foundation model project are still valid and what approach we should take to narrow the gap with frontier AI (the most advanced AI models with leading performance and generality among existing AI). We also need to build a framework that allows groups with the highest level of capabilities in Korea to join forces."
Ha Jung-woo, standing vice chair of the Presidential Committee on AI, stated accordingly at an inaugural press briefing held at Seoul Square in Jung-gu, Seoul, on the 31st. To reduce reliance on U.S. and Chinese frontier AI technologies, he proposed reexamining the goals and implementation methods of the independent AI foundation model project and having the government concentrate support on graphics processing units (GPUs) and data.
Regarding the controversy over the second-round evaluation results for the project, the vice chair avoided direct assessment of individual corporations that failed or the evaluation process. Instead, he said, "We need to check whether the project is proceeding well in light of the fundamental purpose for which it was launched," and noted, "While making good use of AI will be important going forward, our own capacity to build powerful AI remains crucial."
He said no decision has yet been made on whether to pursue a separate frontier AI project after completing the current project or to link it with the existing program. "The Ministry of Science and ICT, the lead ministry, is still considering the direction," he said. "Once a draft is prepared, we will discuss it with the committee to find the most suitable approach, and if necessary, we can put it to a full committee vote."
◇ "AI access could be restricted if U.S. and China change policies"
The vice chair cited the risks of technological dependence as a reason Korea must secure frontier AI development capabilities. "AI gaps can lead to disparities across almost all industries and national capabilities," he said, emphasizing, "In the frontier AI race, we should make it a core goal to build the capacity to develop competitive AI on our own."
He also suggested that China, which has expanded an open AI ecosystem along with the United States, could change its model disclosure policy in the future. "Even if China's openness policy shifts abruptly, the government should support corporations so they can respond immediately," the vice chair said. "If policy shifts leave us with access only to less capable AI, it could result in forfeiting national competitiveness and corporate opportunities."
If competing with the United States and China across all sectors is difficult, he said Korea should first secure its own capabilities in nationally critical areas such as security and the public sector. "In key fields, we must be able to build and operate competitive models ourselves," he said, adding, "Policy should aim to supplement shortfalls by leveraging open models and the like."
◇ "Gather top talent and provide major support for GPUs and data"
The vice chair assessed that it would be hard for a single domestic corporation to shoulder the frontier AI race alone, which requires massive capital. "Given the size of domestic corporations, it is difficult for them to compete solo," he said. "We should build a framework that allows highly capable groups to join forces, and the government should significantly support GPUs and data so they can focus on research and development."
He stressed, however, that the effort should not end with simply building one more model. "Frontier AI does not mean only language models," he said. "Even if the direction of AI technology's evolution changes, we must cultivate the capacity to develop, operate, and keep pace or move ahead on our own." He added that expanding these capabilities to physical AI would allow Korea to secure sufficient competitiveness.
He pointed to regulations on data use and permits for AI data centers as hurdles that must be resolved urgently. He assessed that while a considerable number of GPUs have been secured, they are still insufficient. The vice chair said, "Being fully dependent on a particular corporation can be a risk factor, so we need to diversify supply chains," adding that he would work to strengthen the competitiveness of domestic AI accelerators and also review potential power shortages.
He also presented the gap in AI access and understanding, identified in local regions, as a key policy task. "How we bridge the divide in AI literacy and access between the central government and regions, and among industries, will be the biggest hurdle to national growth through AI," he said, adding that he would support AI transitions for regional manufacturing and small and midsize and mid-tier companies.
◇ On a question about running again in the general election: "For now, focusing on AI issues"
He avoided a direct answer when asked about the possibility of returning to politics in the 2028 general election. "During the four months when the vice chair post was vacant, much happened in AI and a host of pending issues have piled up," the vice chair said. "Right now, we must focus solely on national AI competitiveness and national growth." He added, "As for political moves, it would be appropriate to take time separately to整理 and explain them."
The vice chair on Monday defined the committee as Korea's top control tower for AI policy. He also set a goal of advancing the "Korea Great Leap Three Mega Projects," centered on semiconductors, physical AI, and AI data centers, to make Korea an "irreplaceable core country in the global AI supply chain."