South Korea Launches Artificial Intelligence Research Centre for Defense

The South Korean Defense Ministry announced the establishment of a new research center on April 1 aimed at overseeing artificial intelligence (AI) development within the defense sector.

The founding ceremony for the Defense AI Center occurred at the state-run Agency for Defense Development in Daejeon, located 139 kilometers south of Seoul. Notable attendees included Defense Minister Shin Won-sik and Science Minister Lee Jong-ho, as per Shin's office.

This initiative aligns with South Korea's Defense Innovation 4.0 initiative, which seeks to enhance the military's capabilities through the integration of advanced technologies, particularly AI.

Comprising approximately 110 civilian and military personnel, the center's primary focus will be on the development of AI-based manned-unmanned teaming systems and battlefield situational awareness. Additionally, it aims to explore the application of AI technologies from the civilian sector to military operations, according to statements from the ministry.

In a further demonstration of commitment to technological advancement, Shin and Lee signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between their ministries to enhance cooperation in key technology sectors crucial for future battlefields. These sectors include artificial intelligence, semiconductors, space, and cyberspace, the ministry disclosed.

Under the terms of the MOU, both parties will collaborate on research and development efforts aimed at fostering cooperation between the private sector and the military. Moreover, they plan to leverage civilian and military infrastructure to verify research conducted by universities and state-run institutes, as outlined by the ministry.