South Korea has set its sights on becoming one of the world’s top three artificial intelligence (AI) powerhouses, with a bold vision unveiled by President Lee Jae-myung on September 8, 2025. The announcement, made during the launch of the National AI Strategy Committee, signals a sweeping ambition to reshape the country’s economic and technological landscape. According to VietnamPlus, this move positions South Korea at a pivotal crossroads, as global competition in AI heats up and nations race to secure their place in the digital future.
President Lee’s declaration was anything but routine. He spoke at 7 AM local time, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the moment. "South Korea is at a historic turning point," Lee stated, emphasizing that the nation must decide whether to risk falling behind or seize the initiative as a global pioneer in AI. His words were a rallying cry not just for policymakers and industry leaders, but for every citizen: "We must act boldly to accelerate our transition to AI."
The campaign to become an AI superpower is not just about prestige. Lee Jae-myung, whose presidential campaign has made technology a central theme, argued that the country’s future prosperity depends on whether it can harness AI as the next engine of growth. "If we lag behind, it will mean dependence on foreign technology, industrial decline, and widening inequality," he warned. The stakes, in his view, could not be higher.
As reported by InfoQuest, Lee’s government has outlined a strategy built on four key pillars. First, South Korea will focus on developing human-centered and inclusive AI, ensuring that everyone can access and benefit from the technology. This approach aims to bridge digital divides and prevent the emergence of new social inequalities. Second, the government is pledging strategic investment to support the private sector and boost global competitiveness. Third, there will be a concerted push to reform administrative, healthcare, and educational systems, making society more AI-friendly. Finally, the plan emphasizes building robust AI infrastructure and nurturing talent across the country, fostering balanced regional growth.
These strategies are not simply theoretical. Lee Jae-myung has promised active government support for AI research, development, and application. He sees AI as a lever to transform not only the tech industry but also the broader economy. "Our vision to become one of the top three AI powers will determine South Korea’s future," he declared. The message is clear: this is a national priority, and the government is prepared to put its weight—and its resources—behind it.
The announcement comes at a time when AI is rapidly reshaping industries and societies worldwide. The United States and China currently lead the global AI race, with Europe and other Asian nations also investing heavily. For South Korea, already a technological powerhouse in fields like semiconductors and telecommunications, the challenge is to translate its strengths into leadership in the next wave of digital innovation.
Observers note that South Korea’s approach is distinctive in its emphasis on inclusivity and societal benefit. Rather than focusing solely on industrial or military applications, the government is seeking to ensure that AI advances are accessible to all citizens. This reflects broader concerns about the social impact of automation and the potential for technology to exacerbate inequality. By prioritizing human-centered AI, South Korea hopes to set itself apart on the global stage.
There is also a strong focus on education and workforce development. President Lee has called for reforms to the education system to prepare young people for an AI-driven world. This includes not only technical training but also efforts to foster creativity, critical thinking, and ethical awareness. The goal is to produce a new generation of AI talent capable of driving innovation and ensuring that South Korea remains competitive in the global economy.
Strategic government investment is another cornerstone of the plan. Lee Jae-myung has committed to supporting private sector initiatives and building partnerships between industry, academia, and government. The aim is to create a vibrant ecosystem in which startups, established companies, and research institutions can collaborate and compete on the world stage. This approach echoes the strategies that helped South Korea become a leader in electronics and automotive manufacturing in previous decades.
The government’s commitment extends to building the necessary infrastructure for AI development and deployment. This includes high-performance computing resources, data centers, and secure digital networks. By investing in these foundations, South Korea hopes to attract global talent and investment, positioning itself as a hub for AI innovation.
Of course, the path to AI leadership is not without its challenges. The global AI landscape is fiercely competitive, with major powers pouring billions into research and development. South Korea will need to navigate issues of data privacy, security, and ethical governance as it seeks to expand its AI capabilities. President Lee has acknowledged these challenges, calling for "bold action" and urging all sectors of society to embrace change.
Internationally, South Korea’s AI ambitions are likely to have ripple effects. As other countries watch closely, the nation’s efforts could spur greater investment and innovation across the region. There is also potential for new partnerships and collaborations, as South Korea seeks to position itself as a leader in responsible and inclusive AI.
For South Koreans, the government’s announcement is both a challenge and an opportunity. As President Lee put it, "We are at a historic turning point." The decisions made now, he argued, will shape the country’s trajectory for decades to come. Whether South Korea can achieve its goal of becoming a top-three AI power remains to be seen, but the ambition is unmistakable—and the world will be watching.
With a clear strategy, strong leadership, and a commitment to inclusivity, South Korea is betting that it can chart a new course in the global AI race. The coming years will reveal whether this bold vision can be transformed into reality. For now, the message from Seoul is one of determination, optimism, and a willingness to embrace the future—on its own terms.
