South Korea Unveils Super‑Innovation Economy Plan Emphasizing Public AI Access
Updated (2 articles)
Finance Minister Koo Announces Public AI Initiative Koo Yun‑cheol told economy‑related ministers on Feb. 4, 2026 that artificial intelligence is a “new continent” that must be open to every citizen, not just a privileged few [1]. He framed public AI access as a core pillar of the nation’s digital transformation agenda [1]. The remarks were made during a ministerial meeting at the Seoul government complex, underscoring coordinated policy action [1].
Government Launches Super‑Innovation Economy Blueprint The administration unveiled a “super‑innovation economy” strategy centered on AI‑driven transformation, aiming to embed advanced technologies across industry and society [1]. The blueprint pledges comprehensive state support for domestic AI firms and semiconductor leaders to secure global leadership positions [1]. Officials described the plan as a systematic overhaul designed to make AI a foundational element of economic growth [1].
Systemic Overhaul Targets Nationwide AI Integration Koo announced that existing regulatory and institutional frameworks will be revamped so AI can take root in every corner of the economy [1]. The overhaul includes measures to streamline funding, talent development, and infrastructure deployment for AI and related sectors [1]. By embedding AI throughout public and private spheres, the government seeks to accelerate innovation and maintain competitive advantage [1].
Timeline
2025 (Myanmar earthquake) – AI combined with satellite data rapidly assesses damage, providing critical information in remote or conflict‑affected areas and demonstrating AI’s humanitarian potential, which fuels calls for broader adoption [2].
Dec 5, 2025 – UNDP Assistant Secretary‑General Kanni Wignaraja urges South Korea to leverage its advanced digital infrastructure and skilled workforce to help developing nations adopt AI, warning that unchecked AI could widen global inequality [2].
Dec 5, 2025 – Wignaraja outlines concrete steps for inclusive AI—affordable internet access, basic digital literacy programs, and strengthened governance systems—emphasizing these measures as essential for making AI benefits accessible to all [2].
Dec 5, 2025 – She notes President Lee Jae Myung’s administration targets a top‑three global AI power ranking, aligning with South Korea’s broader technological ambitions and economic self‑interest in creating stable, law‑governed markets for Korean businesses [2].
Feb 4, 2026 – Finance Minister Koo Yun‑cheol declares AI a “new continent” that must be open to all citizens, pledging public AI access and a systemic overhaul to embed AI across the economy and society during a meeting of economy‑related ministers in Seoul [1].
Feb 4, 2026 – Koo announces the launch of a “super‑innovation economy” blueprint centered on AI‑driven transformation, promising comprehensive state support for domestic AI and semiconductor leaders to secure global leadership [1].