Korean tech giants are seizing the opportunity presented by the global AI boom, following the success of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Samsung Electronics recently introduced its own generative AI model called Gauss, which is expected to be integrated into various Samsung products, including Galaxy smartphones. Initially, Gauss will be utilized internally to assist with tasks like email composition and summarizing meeting notes. In addition, Samsung is actively working on a partnership with Naver to develop an AI chip.
Meanwhile, KT, one of Korea’s major mobile carriers, has announced its plan to invest a significant 7 trillion won ($5.4 billion) into AI over the next five years. The company aims to diversify its AI-related business portfolio to include robots, healthcare, and education, with a revenue target of 1.3 trillion won in 2025.
Likewise, SK Telecom, another prominent Korean mobile carrier, is tripling its investment in AI over the next five years. The company has set an ambitious goal of generating more than 25 trillion won in revenue from AI ventures. As part of this strategy, SK Telecom has introduced an AI assistant called A. service, which offers features such as call summarization and simultaneous translation in multiple languages.
Naver and LG have also joined the race to challenge ChatGPT’s dominance in the market. Naver’s large-language model, HyperCLOVA X, showcases expertise in the Korean language. On the other hand, LG’s Exaone focuses on specific sectors such as drug development and patent verifications, offering a unique value proposition.
With these developments, Korean tech giants are positioning themselves to capitalize on the growing demand for AI technologies globally. Not only are they introducing their own generative AI models, but they are also diversifying their AI-related business portfolios to cater to various sectors such as healthcare, education, and language translation. The competition between companies like Samsung, KT, SK Telecom, Naver, and LG is intensifying as they strive to offer innovative AI solutions to a global audience.
The rapid expansion of AI technologies in Korea not only showcases the country’s tech prowess but it also highlights the growing importance of AI in various industries. As these Korean tech giants continue to invest heavily in AI, we can expect to see groundbreaking advancements and applications in the field, further fueling the global AI boom.
By Jin Eun-Soo.
