A record budget
South Korea aims to double its investment in artificial intelligence and semiconductors in its 2027 budget. As part of this, $3.5 billion has been allocated to develop the country's own sovereign AI model.
What does sovereign AI mean?
"Sovereign AI" refers to a country developing its core language and AI models with its own infrastructure rather than relying on foreign providers. The approach aims to keep control of data and models within national borders.
Semiconductors get a share too
The budget increase covers not only models but also semiconductors, the foundation of AI hardware. South Korea aims to strengthen its position in chip production through AI investment.
Why it matters
In the AI rivalry between the US and China, countries are increasingly building their own models. South Korea's budget at this scale shows the sovereign AI race is not limited to big companies.
