South Korea has taken a significant step forward in its pursuit of leadership in artificial intelligence by unveiling the National AI Strategy Committee. The Ministry of Science and ICT announced that the Cabinet endorsed the committee’s formation during a meeting led by President Lee Jae-Myung at the Yongsan Presidential Office on September 2.
In a move that fulfills a key campaign promise, President Lee has restructured the former Presidential Committee on AI, expanding its authority to transform it into a central command hub for AI initiatives. This new body is endowed with the responsibility to oversee strategic plans, coordinate efforts across various ministries, and assess the effectiveness of AI projects.
The revamped committee is tasked with setting South Korea’s national AI vision and defining medium- to long-term strategies aimed at catapulting the nation into the ranks of the world’s top three AI leaders. Its membership has grown from 45 to 50 commissioners, and now includes three vice chairs, one of whom will be a full-time representative from the private sector, enhancing operational efficiency. The Chief Secretary to the President for AI Future Planning will serve as the committee’s secretary, alongside 13 ministers representing sectors like finance, education, and defense.
To further strengthen execution capabilities, the committee will establish a Council of Chief AI Officers, which will include deputy ministers and regional government officials. A chairperson will be appointed by the president from among the commissioners, ensuring a seamless connection between high-level decision-making and the grassroots implementation of AI initiatives.
“Through the establishment of this presidential decree, a systematic foundation has been prepared to build the national AI command center, marking the first step in challenging the bold vision of the Lee Jae-myung administration to leap to become one of the top three countries in AI,” explained Bae Kyung-Hoon, Minister of Science and ICT.
As South Korea charts its course towards becoming an AI powerhouse, it remains to be seen how quickly it will race ahead of the competition—will they be able to outpace the digital cheetahs of China, the US, and beyond?
What is the primary goal of the National AI Strategy Committee?
The primary goal of the National AI Strategy Committee is to set South Korea’s national AI vision and establish strategies aimed at positioning the country among the top three AI leaders globally.
How has the committee’s structure changed under the new presidential decree?
The committee’s membership has increased from 45 to 50 commissioners, with the number of vice chairs rising from one to three, each aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and strategic oversight.
What additional body will work alongside the committee to support its initiatives?
The committee will operate a Council of Chief AI Officers, which will include deputy ministers and regional officials, facilitating a connection between national strategies and local implementation.
