TLDR: South Korea is being urged by industry leaders to expedite the passage of its Special Act on AI Industry Development to maintain national competitiveness in the face of the intensifying US-China rivalry in artificial intelligence.
Seoul, South Korea – August 11, 2025 – South Korea’s government is facing increasing pressure to fast-track legislation aimed at bolstering its artificial intelligence capabilities. A recent public hearing on the proposed Special Act on AI Industry Development saw industry leaders advocating for a swift review and implementation of the law. This urgency stems from a growing concern over the nation’s competitiveness in the global AI landscape, particularly amidst the ongoing technological rivalry between the United States and China.
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Key figures within the industry emphasize the critical need for South Korea to cultivate its own robust AI ecosystem. Youchul Kim, Head of the Strategy Unit at LG AI Research, highlighted this sentiment, stressing that the country must prioritize securing independent, high-quality AI models and platforms. This strategic focus aims to reduce reliance on foreign technologies and ensure South Korea’s self-sufficiency and leadership in the rapidly evolving AI sector. The proposed legislation is seen as a crucial step in providing the necessary framework and support for domestic AI innovation and development, thereby safeguarding the nation’s economic and technological future.
