Bae Gyeong-hun, the candidate for Minister of Science and ICT, stated that he aims to establish 'Sovereign AI' within next year. He expressed the position that fines should be suspended under the AI Basic Act and also revealed his will to innovate the government's research and development (R&D) system.
On the 14th, candidate Bae said at the National Assembly Science, ICT, Broadcasting, and Communications Committee confirmation hearing for the Minister of Science and ICT that "we must create an environment where anyone can use AI effectively" and added, "it must be accomplished within next year."
'Sovereign AI' is a key goal of Lee Jae-myung's government AI policy. The aim is to establish a unique AI model for Korea, and it is known that Bae and Chief of AI Future Planning Ha Jung-woo have been aligned on Sovereign AI for some time. The new government is expected to enhance infrastructure such as data centers and graphics processing units (GPUs) while promoting various policies including workforce development for the establishment of Sovereign AI.
Candidate Bae noted, "From a technical standpoint, Korea can create AI foundation models at a global level" and added, "the most lacking aspect in Korea right now is infrastructure."
A foundation model is an AI trained on extensive data to be applicable to various tasks. It can be likened to a kind of operating system, similar to 'Windows' for computers. He stated, "Both the government and corporations have strong willpower," and added, "if we can implement our plans well, we can achieve our goals."
Regarding the AI Basic Act that will be implemented in January next year, he expressed the need for amendments. Article 40, Paragraph 2 of the AI Basic Act stipulates that the Minister of Science and ICT can investigate business sites of AI companies, including their books, documents, and other materials, if an investigation is required. Corporations are raising concerns about the potential misuse of this provision. Violating the obligations under the AI Basic Act can result in fines.
Candidate Bae answered regarding his personal position, "I do not think the regulations are excessive, but I believe it is necessary to thoroughly examine issues related to misuse," and he also indicated that there is a need for measures to suspend fines.
Regarding the fourth mobile operator, he stated, "It is a matter that should be judged comprehensively considering various market conditions and technological advancements."
In the field of science, he expressed the intention to innovate the R&D investment system and create a fundamental research ecosystem with diversity and predictability. He stated, "We will actively introduce and promote the use and dissemination of AI in scientific fields such as basic science to accelerate the generation of innovative research results."
Meanwhile, candidate Bae addressed his allegations of inadequate military service, stating, "I was diligent during my military service period," and explained, "Due to the poor management condition of the company, I had no choice but to do various tasks and I think I performed the role of 3 to 4 people." He also responded to the allegations that he accumulated credentials during his time as a researcher, stating, "The approval for doctoral studies was not during my military service period."
Candidate Bae explained, "I received approval for studying in consultation with the company and completed the doctoral program with the approval of my advisor and the official approval from the Military Manpower Administration," adding, "The company requested that I attend the doctoral program part-time." He also added, regarding his completion of a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Southern California and a graduate course at Stanford University during his time as a researcher, "It was an online course, so I finished it in four months."