Post by : Badri Ariffin

A significant meeting unfolded in Seoul this Friday as Masayoshi Son, the CEO of SoftBank Group, engaged with President Lee Jae Myung to discuss South Korea’s pivotal role in the advancing realm of artificial intelligence. The talks highlighted the nation's dedication to embedding AI within its essential infrastructure for the benefit of all citizens.

Prioritizing AI Development
President Lee articulated the necessity of incorporating AI into South Korea’s foundational resources, equating its importance to that of water systems and transportation networks. “The incredible capabilities of AI must be available to every individual and nation,” Lee remarked, reaffirming intentions for responsible and inclusive utilization. He also proposed that Son facilitate deeper collaboration between South Korea and Japan in AI.

Son Discusses the Future of Superintelligent AI
Expounding on the realm of artificial superintelligence (ASI), Son highlighted that while current focus is on achieving human-level AI or AGI, the forthcoming advancements are set to exceed human intelligence. “ChatGPT 5.1 has already been successful in doctoral-level evaluations in disciplines such as medicine and physics,” he noted, predicting that ASI could be 10,000 times more intelligent than humans. He drew an analogy comparing the dynamic between humans and ASI to that of a human and a goldfish, emphasizing the inherent disparities in capability and design.

Son prompted a transformative shift in perspective, suggesting that rather than aiming to control AI, humanity should strive for a harmonious coexistence. “In the era of ASI, AI will have the intelligence to treat humans well and enhance their happiness,” he stated, likening it to how humans interact with pets.

Strategic Areas for Advancement in Korea
During the discussion, Son pinpointed four essential areas for constructing a thriving ASI ecosystem: energy, semiconductors, data, and education. He lauded South Korea’s strength in semiconductor manufacturing, viewing it as essential to bolstering the “memory alliance” with the U.S. He advocated for the development of data centers and robust energy frameworks to cater to impending AI needs, highlighting AI education as a primary investment focus.

Enhancing the AI Landscape in Korea
In the wake of these conversations, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy established a memorandum of understanding with Arm, a SoftBank-supported chip design firm, to fortify South Korea’s capabilities in AI semiconductors. The initiative will see the launching of a specialized “Arm School” aimed at training approximately 1,400 global design professionals, underlining the nation’s long-term vision for leadership in AI innovation.

This impactful meeting, arranged following Son’s outreach at the APEC summit, featured influential figures from industry including Rene Haas, the CEO of Arm, as well as South Korean ministers in charge of science, industry, and AI policy.

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