South Korea Launches AI Safety Institute to Address Technology Risks

SEOUL, Nov. 27 (Yonhap) -- South Korea has officially launched its artificial intelligence safety institute, marking a significant step toward addressing the various risks associated with the rapid advancement of AI technology, as reported by the Ministry of Science and ICT.

The establishment of the AI Safety Institute is part of the outcomes from the AI Seoul Summit held in May, where representatives from South Korea, the United Kingdom, and eight other nations came together to endorse a joint declaration focused on fostering safe, innovative, and inclusive AI.

Institute's Objectives and Location

Located in Pangyo, a tech hub just south of Seoul, the institute is set to lead research aimed at understanding and mitigating risks associated with AI. These risks include potential abuse of the technology and the possibility of losing control over its applications. Furthermore, the institute will act as a collaborative network for industry professionals, academics, and research institutions dedicated to AI safety.

In addition to its national role, the AI Safety Institute will engage in an international network of similar institutes, facilitating global discussions on the agendas related to AI safety.

Leadership and Collaborative Efforts

Professor Kim Myuhng-joo, an expert in information security from Seoul Women's University, has been appointed as the inaugural chief of the new institute. During the opening ceremony, she emphasized that the organization will support local AI companies in reducing risk factors to enhance their global competitiveness, rather than acting as a regulatory authority.

At the inauguration, a consortium comprising various AI-related companies, universities, and research institutes officially signed a memorandum of understanding. This agreement aims to foster collaboration in researching, policymaking, and evaluating AI safety measures. Initial members of this consortium include major technology firms such as Naver Corp., KT Corp., and Kakao Corp., alongside prestigious universities like Seoul National University, the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, and Korea University.

International Discussions and Research Collaborations

After the ceremony, Chief Kim engaged in discussions with European AI safety officials regarding ways to facilitate regulatory exemptions for South Korean firms entering the European market to comply with local AI regulations. Additionally, South Korea has opted to collaborate with Japan and Singapore on research concerning the phenomenon of AI providing varying answers based on language and cultural context.

Furthermore, Kim mentioned that the United States will chair the international network of AI safety institutes, with its vice-chair yet to be determined.

The launch of the AI Safety Institute is a proactive measure in response to the rapid developments in AI technology, highlighting South Korea's commitment to ensuring that innovation is matched with safety and ethical considerations.

AI, safety, technology