Seoul:South Korea's Finance Minister, Lee Hyoung-il, has announced the nation's commitment to fostering a global "artificial intelligence (AI) basic society" to ensure no country is left behind in the AI transformation. This pledge was made during his speech at the Global AI and Digital Summit, co-hosted by South Korea's science ministry and the World Bank, which commenced in Seoul.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Minister Lee emphasized South Korea's transformation from an aid recipient to a technological leader, highlighting the role of technology in economic and societal development. He expressed South Korea's intention to partner with developing nations in their AI transformations, leveraging the country's experience and capabilities.
To support this initiative, South Korea is collaborating with six multilateral development banks, including the World Bank, to create an AI hub that integrates their AI cooperation centers within South Korea. The hub aims to ensure inclusivity in the benefits of AI, fostering a worldwide AI basic society.
In a meeting with World Bank President Ajay Banga, Minister Lee discussed sharing South Korea's AI capabilities and experience with developing nations. The dialogue also covered utilizing South Korea's nuclear energy technologies to ensure a stable power supply, supporting sustainable growth in these countries.
The Global AI and Digital Summit marks the largest gathering since the World Bank inaugurated the annual event in 2024, attracting approximately 900 participants from 160 countries, including relevant ministers and private-sector officials. The discussions emphasized the importance of industrial development that generates opportunities and jobs for young people and the need for inclusive and sustainable development efforts in developing nations.