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AhnLab Transforms into AI-Native Security Platform with 'AhnLab AI Plus' AhnLab has announced the launch of its integrated brand 'AhnLab AI Plus,' which reconfigures over 30 security products and services along with more than 30 years of accumulated threat intelligence and security operations experience around AI. The company aims to transition into an 'AI-native security platform company.'As AI emerges as a new actor in cyberattacks, attackers are leveraging AI to quickly identify vulnerabilities and automate their methods. With the expansion of cloud, SaaS, and AI usage by businesses, the attack surface and security events are increasing, necessitating a new system to bridge the gap between AI attacks and human-centered security operations.During a press conference on the 'AhnLab AI Vision Declaration,' the company unveiled the integrated brand 'AhnLab AI Plus,' along with its product and platform strategy, agentic AI technology, and long-term investment and growth plans. AhnLab AI Plus represents a platform and architecture concept that connects technology, products, and services.AhnLab plans to shift from 'AI-powered security,' which adds AI features to existing products, to 'AI-native security,' where products, services, and security operations are designed from the ground up with AI at the core. The company aims to connect dispersed data across product areas into a single security context and implement an architecture where multiple AI agents collaborate.The business structure will also pivot towards a SaaS model. Products and services will be restructured into 'AhnLab AI Plus Endpoint' and 'AhnLab AI Plus SecOps.' The endpoint will integrate EPP and EDR on a SaaS basis, expanding protection from PCs to servers, virtual environments, containers, and mobile devices. SecOps will connect various security signals centered on XDR, MDR, and AI SOC to analyze the context and priority of attacks, supporting prevention, detection, investigation, and response as a unified flow.AhnLab plans to connect data from endpoints, networks, cloud, operational technology (OT), threat intelligence, and security monitoring, allowing AI to reconstruct multiple signals into a single security incident and suggest response priorities. Multiple AI agents will perform threat analysis, infer attack flows, assess risk levels, and propose investigation and response measures.Currently, AhnLab is implementing agentic AI security based on over 2.5 petabytes (PB) of security data, 13 specialized AI models, and 60 security tools. The company processes over 190 million security objects and more than 50 billion tokens each month, reducing the processing time for some AI SOC tasks from five minutes to about two minutes, a reduction of approximately 60%.The processes of AI judgment, action, and data access will be recorded and reviewed, with key actions executed only after user approval. AhnLab defines this as the principle of 'controlled autonomy,' managing AI autonomy through authority, policy, audit, and approval.Over the next three years, AhnLab plans to invest a total of 100 billion won in AI. The focus will be on AI infrastructure, technology, specialized talent, and research and development capabilities, linking these to an 'AI-native × platform × SaaS × global' growth engine.The technology, data, and security operations experience accumulated in South Korea will be expanded into international markets through API and cloud-based services and a global partner ecosystem. The company will also pursue strategic M&A and collaborative research, business cooperation, and investment with AI technology firms and startups. AhnLab aims to achieve 1 trillion won in revenue by 2035, with over 30% coming from global sales.AhnLab has also established an 'AI Security Experience Zone' consisting of 'AI Prevention,' 'AI SOC,' and 'AI Detection and Response' to showcase the operational processes of AI-based security technology.CEO Kang Seok-kyun stated, 'At this point, where AI is changing the game rules of cybersecurity and the competitive landscape of the security industry, 'AhnLab AI Plus' marks AhnLab's next chapter. We will grow into the first AI-native security platform company that comes to mind when customers face security challenges in the AI era.' 2026-09-16 10:16:00
The Purpose of Knowledge, Wealth, and Power in Judaism What does a people gain from years of study and inquiry? Perhaps it is knowledge. Knowledge leads to technology, technology spawns industry, and industry creates wealth. Wealth, in turn, gives rise to businesses and capital, and when capital and technology combine, they can become a formidable power. This leaves us with one final question. What should that power be used for? The first part of the story of Judaism followed Abraham and Moses on their journeys of departure, liberation, and covenant. Abraham left his familiar land, and Moses led the enslaved people out of Egypt. At the end of that long journey, humanity gained freedom, but they also learned that freedom comes with responsibility. The second part examined how that covenant evolved into the Torah and Talmud, the Sabbath, family education, and a culture of questioning and discussion. After the destruction of the Temple, the Jewish people built a temple of words in place of the stone one, continued to read even after losing their homeland, and preserved their knowledge even when books were taken from them. Parents taught their children, and children passed that knowledge on to their offspring. Departure led to freedom, freedom led to covenant, and covenant led to study. Thousands of years of study ultimately resulted in knowledge, which in turn generated wealth and power. The third part of the story of Judaism begins at this juncture. What should humanity do with the knowledge, wealth, and power it has acquired? Einstein: Questioning the Order of the Universe Among the great scientists who opened the 20th century, Albert Einstein stands out. Born in 1879 to a Jewish family in Ulm, Germany, he questioned the very foundations of physics, including time and space. Does time flow the same for everyone? Is space absolute? What is light? How does gravity work? He posed these questions where others believed answers already existed. His theories of special and general relativity changed humanity's perspective on the universe. However, the direct contribution for which he received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921 was not relativity but the discovery of the photoelectric effect. Scientific revolutions often begin with new questions rather than new answers. Einstein's life symbolizes the intersection of Judaism's long tradition of questioning and the spirit of modern science. Of course, it would be an oversimplification to attribute his genius solely to Jewish education. A scientist's great achievements are the result of personal talent, historical conditions, the long accumulation of European science, and the institutions of universities and research organizations. What is crucial lies elsewhere. He did not accept the obvious as given. Why is that? This simple question changed the face of the universe. The questions that were repeatedly asked in the Talmud study rooms also began from the same place: Why is that? Is there another way to look at it? What if the current explanation is wrong? It is the questioning human that changes the world. The Surprising Number of Jews Among Nobel Laureates Examining the history of the Nobel Prize reveals an intriguing phenomenon: the proportion of Jewish or Jewish-descended individuals among laureates is significantly higher than their share of the global population. Various statistics and studies estimate that about 20% of all Nobel Prize winners are of Jewish descent, despite the fact that Jews make up less than 1% of the world's population. In physics, figures like Einstein, Niels Bohr, and Richard Feynman emerged, and many Jewish laureates have also been recognized in medicine, chemistry, economics, and literature. However, this should not be explained as a matter of racial superiority. Claims that one ethnicity is intellectually superior to another are scientifically indefensible, and humanity has already experienced the dangerous consequences of such thinking throughout the horrific history of the 20th century. To understand the high academic achievements of Jews, one must consider history, culture, education, and institutions rather than genetic myths. Factors such as millennia of literacy education, the literacy required to read the Torah, the tradition of parents viewing their children's education as a religious responsibility, a culture that encourages questioning and discussion, the practical necessity of viewing education as a secure asset in a life of diaspora, a broad network formed around cities and commerce, and the historical conditions combined with modern European and American university and scientific institutions all played a role. Genius does not simply fall from the sky. Behind an individual's talent lies a culture that discovers, nurtures, and encourages questioning. Thus, the message that the Jewish example conveys to humanity is not that 'Jews are special.' Rather, it is that a society that values education nurtures human potential. Knowledge Transcends Borders The diaspora was a tragedy for the Jewish people. They had to leave their homeland, and upon settling in new lands, they often faced expulsion again. Religious persecution and social discrimination were also persistent. Yet, history has its paradoxes. Those who cannot settle gain movable assets. Land cannot move. Buildings cannot move. But knowledge can. Language can move, mathematics can move, and medicine can move. The skills of calculation and contract also cross borders. Thus, the life of the diaspora ultimately increased the value of 'invisible assets' such as knowledge, human relationships, trust, and networks. Jewish communities in medieval Islamic and various European regions engaged in commerce, crafts, medicine, translation, administration, and finance. Living among diverse languages and cultures, they often played a role in connecting different civilizations. However, this history should not be read romantically. While there were instances of freely chosen professions, in some regions, land ownership, guild membership, and access to certain professions were restricted. The financial sector should not simply be explained by saying 'Jews are good with money.' The intertwining of religious norms regarding interest in medieval Christian society, Jewish commercial networks and literacy, contract customs, and the financial demands of political power created a complex web. Therefore, equating Jews directly with finance is neither historical nor sensible. It risks perpetuating stereotypes created by long-standing anti-Semitism. History is always more complex than myth. The Power of Finance: A Technology of Trust Nevertheless, it is true that various Jewish financiers and families played significant roles in modern financial history. The Rothschild family is a prime example in European finance. They established family networks across various cities, rapidly exchanging information and providing capital to nations and businesses. Many Jewish individuals have also played crucial roles in modern American finance, investment, and corporate management. However, understanding finance solely in terms of money overlooks something more important. Finance is fundamentally a technology that transforms trust into time. Today, those who have capital provide it to those in need tomorrow. In between, there are contracts, promises, and credit. What is needed before money is trust. Thus, if finance loses its sense of justice, it can become the most dangerous power. When money moves for the sake of humanity, it serves as the lifeblood of the community; when humanity begins to move for the sake of money, finance becomes a power that dominates the community. The warning left by the 2008 global financial crisis ultimately touches on this issue. The level of financial technology does not necessarily equate to the level of financial civilization. What matters more is not how much money is made, but how that money is used. Entrepreneurial Spirit and a Culture of Embracing Failure Since the late 20th century, as the center of the global economy shifted from manufacturing to knowledge and technology, the presence of Jewish entrepreneurs and founders has become increasingly prominent. Many Jewish individuals have created new industries in the fields of information technology, the internet, media and entertainment, biotechnology, finance, and venture capital in the United States. Sergey Brin, co-founder of Google, comes from a Jewish family that emigrated from the Soviet Union to the U.S., while Mark Zuckerberg of Meta and Sam Altman of OpenAI are also notable figures in the global tech industry with Jewish backgrounds. However, it is essential to focus on the environment rather than lineage. A culture that encourages questioning, does not view questioning authority as inherently disrespectful, and does not see failure as the end of life is crucial. Discussion, retrying, and the movement of capital in search of new ideas foster innovation. While it cannot be definitively stated that there is a direct causal relationship between the long tradition of questioning in Judaism and the modern venture ecosystem, one can certainly find cultural resonance in the attitude of questioning the existing order and seeking new answers. Entrepreneurs may be those who first discover questions that others do not see. Why must it be done this way? From that one question, a new business is born. From Desert to 'Startup Nation' Founded in 1948, Israel is not a large country in terms of land or population. It was not equipped to stand at the center of the global economy based solely on natural resources. The nation has faced multiple wars since its founding and continues to grapple with serious security conflicts and geopolitical instability. Nevertheless, Israel has emerged as one of the world's leading nations in technological innovation. This success is attributed to high investment in research and development, the connection between universities, research institutions, and the military, venture capital, global diaspora networks, the experiences of immigrants, government technology policies, and the research and development bases of global companies. Today, Israel ranks among the countries with the highest levels of research and development investment relative to GDP. An ecosystem has developed around information technology, semiconductors, cybersecurity, biotechnology, medical technology, agricultural technology, and water management, particularly in Tel Aviv and Haifa, with global tech giants like Intel, Microsoft, Google, and NVIDIA establishing relationships with Israel's research and development ecosystem. A country lacking water in the desert researched water; a nation with security concerns studied security; and a country with a small domestic market looked to the world as its market from the outset. Crises do not automatically create innovation. However, a society that transforms crises into questions opens the door to innovation. Instead of lamenting what is lacking, they asked. How can we create what is missing? Israel in the Age of AI Now, Israel's innovation ecosystem is rapidly expanding into AI and deep tech. Companies and researchers are active in fields such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, autonomous driving, cybersecurity, medical AI, and defense technology. This ecosystem is not limited to university laboratories. It includes the connection of military and industrial technologies, the re-entrepreneurship of experienced founders, global capital, networks with Silicon Valley in the U.S., and a structure where personnel from failed companies move to new ventures. Failures accumulate as experience, and as people move, knowledge also transfers. That knowledge, in turn, creates new businesses. This is the essence of an ecosystem. However, as AI becomes more powerful, more difficult questions arise. Should AI be used for military technology or for treating diseases? Should it be used to protect citizens or for excessive surveillance? Should it be used to seek truth or to create fake news and propaganda? Should it be used to expand human freedom or to control humans more precisely? Technology does not possess a conscience to set its own purpose. Ultimately, it is humans who determine that direction. Whose Power is Science? Einstein's life takes on new significance here. His theories became a crucial foundation for 20th-century physics, and the advancement of modern physics is linked to the atomic age. He signed a letter to President Franklin Roosevelt warning of the possibility that Nazi Germany might develop nuclear weapons first, but he lived to see the era when nuclear weapons were actually used against humanity. The discoveries of science do not end with a single scientist. Knowledge becomes technology, and technology becomes power. The moment that power leaves the scientist's laboratory and enters the hands of nations, militaries, and corporations, new ethical questions arise. Just because I can discover something, does it mean I should create it? Just because I can create it, does it mean I should use it? Does technological possibility equate to ethical justification? Today, AI researchers face similar questions. If we can create intelligence that surpasses human capabilities, how far should we go? Who should have the authority over that intelligence? Who will control it, and who will be responsible? The ultimate question of science lies beyond science itself. How should we live? Success Can Also Become an Idol From the beginning, Judaism has warned against idolatry. The story of the golden calf in the Book of Exodus is not merely about a golden statue. It reflects the ancient human desire to make visible power into a god. Money can become an idol, knowledge can become an idol, nations can become idols, ethnicities can become idols, and technology can become an idol. Even religion itself can become an idol. Success is no different. The fact that there are many Nobel laureates does not prove the moral superiority of a community. Becoming a global billionaire does not justify all actions of an entrepreneur, and possessing the world's best technology does not make every method of using that technology right. Power does not prove legitimacy in itself. Being strong and being right are entirely different matters. At this point, the ancient prophetic spirit of Judaism reemerges. Prophets Who Spoke of Justice Rather Than Kings The prophets of the Hebrew Bible did not exist to praise power. Rather, they spoke uncomfortable truths in the face of power. When a king erred, they rebuked him, and when the rich trampled the poor, they demanded justice. Amos proclaimed that even if there were an abundance of sacrifices and praises, faith could not be complete without justice. A religion without justice loses its true meaning. The prophet Micah summarized the life required of humanity in terms of justice, kindness, and humility. The depth of religion is not judged solely by the size of the temple, nor is the greatness of a nation measured only by military power. The greatness of a corporation cannot be evaluated solely by its market capitalization. How do we treat humans? How do we treat the weak? Do we recognize the dignity of our enemies? Can those in power restrain their own power? These questions determine the level of civilization. Judaism and Israel Are Not the Same It is essential to make a distinction here. Judaism is a religion with thousands of years of history, Jews are diverse communities that have lived in various regions of the world, and modern Israel is a nation founded in 1948. While these three are deeply related, they are not identical. Not all Jews support every policy of the Israeli government. Criticizing specific policies of the Israeli government does not equate to criticizing Judaism or all Jews worldwide. Conversely, if criticism of the Israeli government is used as a justification for hatred or attacks against all Jews, it crosses the line from policy critique to anti-Semitism. This distinction is increasingly important. The attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent war and violence in Gaza have left deep scars on many people on both sides, and as of 2026, civilians in Gaza continue to face severe humanitarian difficulties. The historical fact that Jews have faced persecution for thousands of years does not automatically justify every action of a modern state. At the same time, criticism of the policies and military actions of the modern Israeli government should not justify hatred against all Jews. Thus, principles are necessary. The lives of civilians are dignified, regardless of ethnicity. A child's life has no nationality, and suffering knows no religion. Justice is not a standard that favors the side I support; it is applying the same standard to everyone. Returning to the Questions of Dasuk Yoo Young-mo At the end of the story of Judaism, we return to Dasuk Yoo Young-mo. He was a person of great learning, traversing the Bible, Buddhist scriptures, the Analects, Mencius, Laozi, and Zhuangzi. However, his ultimate concern did not rest solely on knowledge. What he sought was 'one.' For Dasuk, 'one' was not merely the number 1. It was the source of existence and the ultimate place that humans must seek by humbling and emptying themselves. The 'Eolna' he spoke of was not someone who possessed great wealth or held a high position. It was not even someone who knew more or had greater power than others. It was about transcending the shell of desire and self to find one's true self. This was the path of Eolna. One cannot theologically equate the God of Judaism with Dasuk's 'one.' The two should not be carelessly mixed, given their different histories and worlds of faith. However, they can meet in the ultimate questions posed to humanity. What is the purpose of living? Wisdom Must Follow Knowledge Humanity possesses more knowledge today than at any other time in history. AI can process volumes of documents that would take a human a lifetime to read, and humans are editing genes, sending probes into space, and peering into worlds smaller than atoms. However, the increase in knowledge does not necessarily mean that humanity has become wiser. While information is abundant, distinguishing between truth and falsehood has become more challenging, and while the world's wealth has grown, inequality remains severe. Weapons have become more sophisticated than ever, but wars have not ceased. Connectivity technologies have advanced remarkably, yet human loneliness persists, and as AI becomes smarter every day, humanity still questions the purpose of its existence. Thus, wisdom must follow knowledge. Ethics must follow technology, responsibility must follow growth, sharing must follow wealth, and restraint must follow power. And spirituality must follow intelligence. From HAI to SAI The most important question in the age of AI ultimately concerns humanity. Initially, technology-centered AI prevailed, followed by discussions on Human-centered AI (HAI), which posits that technology should exist for the benefit of humans. Now, it is time to take a step further. We need to consider Spirituality-centered AI (SAI), which thinks beyond human convenience and efficiency to encompass human dignity and life, culture and nature, and the harmony of the earth and the universe. The spirituality referred to here does not mean a specific religion. It is the ability of humans to be aware of a greater existence and world, and to exercise self-restraint over their desires and powers. It is about not doing everything one can do, not possessing everything one can have, and not destroying an opponent simply because one can win. The power to restrain oneself. This is the beginning of spirituality. If we are entering an era where AI is smarter than humans, then humans must become more human than AI. Three Questions We now conclude the long journey of the trilogy of Judaism. In the first journey, we met Abraham and Moses. There, we asked. What must we depart from? We had to leave behind idols and the state of slavery to walk toward freedom. In the second journey, we encountered the Torah, Talmud, the Sabbath, and Jewish family life. There, we asked again. What must we learn and how should we pass it on to the next generation? We had to read, question, remember, rest, and live what we learned. And in the third journey, we met Einstein, Nobel Prizes, finance, business, Israel's innovation, and AI. The final question is heavier. What should we use the knowledge, wealth, and power we have gained for? Departure created freedom, freedom created covenant, and covenant created study. Study gives birth to knowledge, and knowledge creates wealth and power. However, if this is where it ends, civilization will not be complete. Power must return to responsibility. This is the link that connects the beginning and end of the trilogy of Judaism. Returning to Abraham After thousands of years, we stand once again at the starting point of Abraham. God commanded him to depart. He was to leave behind the familiar and what he believed to be safe, to walk a new path away from idols. Perhaps the same command is needed for humanity in the 21st century. We must depart from the belief that money solves everything, from the notion that technology will automatically make us happy, from the arrogance that only our ethnicity is right, from the belief that only our religion holds the truth, and from the illusion that having power means we can do anything. Only then can humanity be free again. The Exodus of Moses is not a concluded event. Humanity continually creates new Egypts and becomes enslaved there again. The Egypt of money, the Egypt of power, the Egypt of nationalism, the Egypt of technology, and the Egypt of AI. We must emerge from there once more. Ultimately, It Is About People Following the long history of Judaism, what remains is not a mysterious secret to success. It is a book and a question. It is a parent reading a book to a child and a student questioning a teacher. It is a person who stops working on the Sabbath to sit at the table with family, a community that builds schools in foreign lands, and finally, a conscience that seeks not to misuse power after gaining it. Civilization is not built solely from grand buildings. It is about creating people. Nobel Prizes ultimately return to people, businesses are created by people, and AI is developed by people. It is people who move money, start wars, and create peace. Thus, all problems ultimately return to humanity. What kind of humans will we create? The 3,000-year history of Judaism cannot escape this question. Neither can we. Truth, Justice, Freedom Truth comes closer to those who question. Justice reveals itself when those in power restrain their power. Freedom does not end with escaping slavery. It is only complete when humans can govern their own desires. And spirituality binds truth, justice, and freedom into one. Knowing a lot cannot be the ultimate purpose of humanity. Having a lot cannot be a goal, nor can becoming stronger than others be the ultimate reason for human existence. Knowledge should be used to save lives. Wealth should elevate human dignity. Power should be a force that protects rather than oppresses the weak. AI should be a tool that preserves humanity, nature, and civilization, not a being that rules over humans. This is the final question posed by the long journey that began with Abraham's departure, through Moses' freedom and covenant, the words of the Torah, the questions of the Talmud, the rest of the Sabbath, the study of the diaspora, Einstein's science, and now to today's AI. In the face of that question, Jews, Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, and even those without religion are not exempt. Every human must answer. What will you do with what you know? Who will you share your wealth with? Who will you protect with your strength? Abraham departed, Moses walked toward freedom, and their descendants took up books. And thousands of years later, humanity holds AI in its hands. Now the choice returns to humanity. From knowledge to wisdom. From wealth to sharing. From power to responsibility. From intelligence to spirituality. On the path that begins from one, seeks one, and returns to one, the final question that Judaism leaves for humanity after crossing thousands of years may be this: “Whom does the power you have saved?” When we can properly answer that question, knowledge becomes wisdom, wealth meets sharing, success becomes civilization, and power becomes justice. And humanity becomes a little more free.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:12:00
South Korea to Discuss Contributions to Hormuz Stability at NSC Meeting The Blue House is set to hold a National Security Council (NSC) meeting on September 17, where discussions are expected to focus on contributions to stability in the Hormuz Strait.According to diplomatic and security authorities on September 16, the NSC meeting will likely address contributions to the Hormuz Strait based on the findings of a recent local investigation team that returned from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The team, which included officials from the Ministry of National Defense, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Joint Chiefs of Staff, assessed the operational environment and support conditions before returning on September 10.The government is considering options that would involve minimal troop deployment, focusing on defensive capabilities such as P-8A maritime patrol aircraft and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams. Technical support, including equipment provision without troop deployment, is also on the table. However, the government has not yet made a decision on the specific contribution method or troop deployment.It remains uncertain whether the NSC will formally address the troop deployment issue as an agenda item. While there are expectations that discussions will take place following the investigation team's report, some speculate that the pace of review may be moderated, excluding the deployment issue.With the upcoming US-South Korea foreign ministers' meeting, there is a possibility that the NSC will not reach a conclusion immediately but will consult with the US side. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that Minister Park Jin will visit Washington, D.C., from September 17 to 19, where he will meet with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on September 18. The two sides are expected to discuss bilateral relations, issues on the Korean Peninsula, and regional and global matters.The issue of contributions to the Hormuz Strait is also anticipated to be addressed during the talks. Recently, US President Donald Trump has indicated that countries not assisting the US will be required to reimburse costs incurred after conflicts, putting pressure on allied nations to participate. South Korea's investments in the US and subsequent security negotiations regarding nuclear-powered submarines are also at stake, suggesting that both countries will coordinate on various issues.Additionally, there is interest in whether President Lee Jae-myung will provide related remarks during a press conference scheduled for September 18. Given the need to consider US demands, domestic public opinion, and the safety of troops, it is possible that the president will outline the principles and direction of contributions.Meanwhile, the Blue House stated, "It is difficult to provide specific confirmations regarding NSC-related matters."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:12:00
ACC and Mori Art Museum Sign Agreement for Cultural Exchange and Education The National Asia Culture Center (ACC) announced on September 16 that it signed a memorandum of understanding with Japan's Mori Art Museum on September 3 to expand international cultural exchange and educational cooperation.This agreement aims to establish a sustainable foundation for collaboration in various areas, including exhibitions, education, professional training, and personnel exchanges. The agreement is set to last for two years.The two institutions plan to work together to build a friendly relationship for mutual cooperation and development, enhance educational opportunities to improve public cultural sensitivity, and plan and operate joint cooperation projects.In particular, the two organizations will intensify their collaboration in exhibitions and education over the next two years. They aim to broaden their cooperation through the exchange of exhibition content, related educational programs, and personnel exchanges involving aspiring professionals and artists.Opened in 2003 in Tokyo's Roppongi Hills, the Mori Art Museum is a leading cultural institution in Japan that focuses on contemporary art and showcases various creative practices, including architecture and design. It has been dedicated to planning exhibitions and educational programs that encompass contemporary art, architecture, and design.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:04:20
Global Physical AI Market Expected to Grow 53% Annually; South Korea as a Testing Ground As physical artificial intelligence (AI), including humanoid robots, rapidly commercializes in manufacturing, experts are calling for the establishment of a domestic robot platform. There are concerns that if South Korea provides its manufacturing infrastructure to global companies, it may become a testing ground for foreign firms.The Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade released a report on September 16 outlining strategies for developing a physical AI ecosystem for manufacturing. The report predicts that physical AI, including humanoid robots, is more likely to be commercialized in manufacturing settings than in service sectors.The market is growing rapidly. The global market for physical AI in industrial automation is projected to increase from $95 million in 2025 to $1.8887 billion by 2032, reflecting an average annual growth rate of about 53%. This is due to the relative ease of learning and commercialization in manufacturing environments.Currently, the transition to manufacturing AI (AX) involves integrating AI into operational technology (OT) solutions, such as production management systems, or utilizing digital twins and predictive maintenance within fixed factory equipment. However, this approach still requires human workers for complex, unstructured tasks. Additionally, applying AI to older equipment commonly used by small and medium-sized manufacturers poses significant challenges.In response, the institute proposed 'physical AI-based manufacturing AX' as an alternative. This approach involves AI robots, including humanoids, mimicking and learning human actions to perform tasks without significantly altering existing work environments, allowing robots to directly operate older equipment. This could help overcome the limitations of fixed-equipment-centered manufacturing AX.South Korea has a competitive advantage in terms of behavioral data. The institute identified six key elements for a physical AI ecosystem: form factor development and design, manufacturing-specific AI behavioral learning, actuators, robotic hands, AI foundation models, and on-device AI semiconductors.However, a challenge remains: the behavioral data that AI robots learn is dependent on the specific form factor of the robots. If domestic manufacturing sites are provided to foreign companies without securing local robots, the behavioral data generated could enhance the competitiveness of global firms' robots. Lee Jun-young, a senior researcher at the institute, expressed concern, stating, "If we only offer our manufacturing sites without our robots, our excellent manufacturing infrastructure could become a testing ground for global physical AI companies."To address this, the institute recommends that South Korea secure its own physical AI robots and expand the domestic ecosystem around them. In the short term, it suggests collaborating with global companies to establish a market entry foundation focused on manufacturing-specific behavioral learning, while in the long term, it emphasizes the need to cultivate areas where domestic form factors and key components can be internalized.The government’s ongoing 'AI Robot Global Power Leap' policy should also be supplemented with a focus on developing domestic robot form factors. The institute proposed a roadmap for expanding the introduction of robots in manufacturing settings based on technological maturity, starting with lightweight, general-purpose, and high-intensity robots. It also suggested creating AI robot learning infrastructure at the industrial complex level to support small and medium-sized manufacturers that lack the capacity for self-introduction of AX.Lee emphasized, "Unlike the United States, which has a strong private-sector physical AI ecosystem, China is rapidly catching up with a state-led strategy. South Korea must also take a proactive role in creating a virtuous cycle of training our robots using our excellent manufacturing infrastructure."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:04:10
28 Countries Gather for Korea-OECD Forum on Public Institutions, ESG, AI, and Performance Management The Ministry of Economy and Finance has strengthened international cooperation by discussing sustainable management of public institutions, artificial intelligence (AI) governance, and ways to link public policy goals with performance evaluation at the Korea-OECD International Policy Forum.On September 15, the ministry announced that it hosted the 4th Korea-OECD International Policy Forum at the OECD headquarters in Paris. The forum was attended by the Director of the Public Policy Bureau of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the OECD, the Director of the OECD Financial and Corporate Affairs Division, and representatives from public institutions in 28 countries and international organizations.The Korea-OECD International Policy Forum has been held annually since 2023, allowing public institution policy officials from OECD member countries to share policy trends and derive insights into management and operational policies.This year's forum focused on three main topics: the implementation of sustainable management in public institutions, the introduction of AI and innovation in corporate governance, and the linkage between public policy goals and performance evaluation of public institutions.The Korean delegation emphasized in the opening remarks the importance of developing the principles of the revised 'OECD Guidelines on Corporate Governance of State-Owned Enterprises' in 2024 into policies and implementation cases suited to each country's circumstances. They noted the need to share experiences and seek practical solutions to achieve stable public services and sustainable outcomes amid environmental changes such as climate change and digital transformation.Prior to the main sessions, the OECD introduced the current state of governance in Korean public enterprises based on the upcoming '2026 OECD Report on Ownership and Governance of State-Owned Enterprises.'The first session discussed ways to implement sustainable management in public institutions. Key topics included how ownership entities can translate policy commitments to sustainability into specific goals, incentives, and monitoring systems. The OECD presented key findings from its report on 'State Ownership and Sustainability in Asia,' while the Korea Institute of Public Finance shared examples of developing and applying ESG guidelines to promote ESG management in Korean public institutions.The second session addressed changes in corporate governance due to AI adoption and corresponding responses. Discussions focused on opportunities and risks associated with data governance, cybersecurity, accountability, and ethical AI use. The OECD released a report on 'Risk Management in State-Owned Enterprises,' and Kim Dong-jin, Director of Public Innovation Planning, introduced the government's role in establishing trustworthy AI governance during the digital transformation process, along with relevant systems and cases in Korea.The third session explored ways to link public policy goals with performance management in public institutions. Based on the OECD's report on 'Public Policy Goals of State-Owned Enterprises,' participants discussed how to set and manage these goals and incorporate them into performance evaluations. The Korea Institute of Public Finance presented examples of establishing public purposes and operating management evaluations and incentives in Korean public institutions.Participants from Spain, Morocco, and the International Monetary Fund also shared their experiences in balancing commercial and non-commercial objectives and adjusting performance indicators.The Ministry of Economy and Finance plans to utilize the discussions and examples shared at this forum in future public institution policy formulation and to continue sharing and collaborating on management and operational policies with OECD member countries.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:04:10
KOTRA Facilitates K-Green Tech Exports with International Buyers The Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) is stepping up efforts to support domestic green technology companies in securing overseas projects in response to global supply chain restructuring and energy transition demands.On September 16, KOTRA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, is hosting the 'Climate, Energy, and Environmental Industry Export Consultation Meeting' in conjunction with the Busan Climate Industry International Expo (WCE).This consultation meeting, supported by the Korea Energy Agency, BEXCO, and the Korea Meteorological Industry Technology Institute, aims to assist K-Green Tech companies in expanding internationally amid supply chain shifts due to geopolitical risks and the global energy transition trend.KOTRA has invited 30 promising buyers and procurement agencies from 10 countries in Europe and Asia, including Vietnam, Serbia, and Algeria. A total of 77 domestic K-Green Tech companies will engage in over 200 one-on-one business consultations, resulting in two memorandums of understanding (MOUs) in the field of ion exchange resin for nuclear power water quality management.T, a renewable energy developer and operator from Vietnam, is attending to source energy storage systems (ESS) and energy efficiency technologies for a 1.5 GW project. Officials from Hanoi's Department of Industry and Trade are also participating to explore partnerships for national projects and discuss industrial exchanges between Busan and Hanoi.Serbia's state-owned shipping company J is seeking to introduce water treatment and renewable energy technologies, while Algeria's state-owned cement company G is looking to discover carbon reduction technologies.Kang Kyung-seong, president of KOTRA, stated, "As the demand for green transition grows in major countries, the competitiveness of K-power and green tech companies is being highly evaluated. We will strengthen follow-up support for the demand identified in this consultation meeting to enhance overseas expansion outcomes."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:04:00
Samsung Expands HVAC Business from Home Heat Pumps to AI Data Center Cooling Samsung Electronics is expanding its heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) business, ranging from home heat pumps to artificial intelligence (AI) cooling solutions for data centers. The company aims to target both residential and commercial-industrial facilities by combining industrial air conditioning technology from FlaktGroup, which it acquired last year, with its existing home appliances and SmartThings ecosystem.From September 16 to 18, Samsung is showcasing a dedicated exhibition space of approximately 270 square meters at the '2026 International Climate Industry Expo' in Busan. The exhibition features high-efficiency appliances, heat pumps, AI data center solutions, and central air conditioning systems for large buildings.In the residential sector, Samsung is prominently featuring its heat pump-based 'EHS All-in-One' product, which provides cooling, heating, and hot water from a single outdoor unit. The 'EHS Heat Pump Boiler,' which supplies heating and hot water using air heat and electricity, is also on display, targeting the government's push for electrification in heating.For industrial applications, Samsung unveiled AI data center cooling solutions developed in collaboration with FlaktGroup. The company also showcased central air conditioning products for advanced industrial facilities and large buildings. An integrated management feature using SmartThings Pro allows real-time monitoring and control of power consumption across various commercial facilities.Last month, Samsung began operations at a newly established air conditioning production facility in Pune, India, following its acquisition of FlaktGroup. This facility is expected to produce up to 6,500 air handling units (AHUs) and computer room air handling units (CRAHs) annually for AI data centers.Samsung is also expanding its domestic production capabilities. The company announced a 240 billion won investment in its Gwangju plant to establish a production line for FlaktGroup air conditioning products. Starting in 2028, it plans to manufacture key equipment for AI data center liquid cooling, including cooling distribution units (CDUs), fan wall units (FWUs), and CRAHs.The exhibition also features energy-efficient appliances, including refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, dishwashers, and induction cooktops, all rated as top-tier in energy consumption efficiency. The 'AI Savings Mode' based on SmartThings and a remote diagnostic feature analyzing appliance status were also introduced.Im Seong-taek, Vice President of Samsung Electronics' DA Division, stated, "This exhibition demonstrates Samsung's comprehensive energy-saving capabilities, from high-efficiency appliances to HVAC solutions for AI data centers and smart buildings. We will lead innovation in energy savings by combining AI-based high-efficiency product technology and services."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:04:00
LG Electronics Accelerates Software Development Innovation Using AI LG Electronics is expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in its software development processes. The company aims to enhance productivity in coding and transform existing product and service development methods to be AI-centric.On September 15, LG Electronics held the 'LG AI DevCon 2026' at the LG Science Park in Magok, Seoul, over two days. This event is a revamped version of the 'LG Software Developer Conference (SDC)' that has been held annually since 2022, now aligned with the changes in AI-based development environments.More than 1,500 developers from LG Electronics and its affiliates, including LG CNS and LG Uplus, participated both online and offline. Representatives from NVIDIA, Microsoft, Google Cloud, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and the LG AI Research Institute also showcased the latest AI technologies.LG Electronics shared its development know-how and achievements gained from using AI in the development of its smart TV platform, webOS. The company also introduced management systems aimed at addressing security threats associated with AI proliferation and enhancing the reliability and transparency of AI services. LG CNS presented cases of improving legacy systems using AI, while LG Uplus discussed content creation using conversational AI agents.Earlier this year, LG Electronics outlined its strategy to enhance work speed and productivity through 'AI Transformation (AX),' which aims to connect all corporate operations with AI. This initiative goes beyond applying AI to individual tasks, intending to integrate AI across development, production, and sales.On the first day of the event, a service development competition was held using LG AI Research Institute's 'ExaOne' and AWS's AI development tool 'Kiro.' In the preliminary round last month, 28 teams and 84 developers participated. Ten teams advanced to the finals with ideas such as home appliance installation simulations and customized proposals for business-to-business (B2B) clients.The keynote speeches addressed how AI is transforming software development methods and trends in physical AI technology. Professors Jeong Ji-hoon from Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology and Shim Hyun-cheol from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) discussed the changes in AI-based development methods and the direction of physical AI advancements.Kim Dong-wook, Executive Vice President and Head of LG Electronics' Software Center, stated, "We will actively share the experiences and innovative cases of AI utilization accumulated in the development field to accelerate AI-based development innovation. We aim to connect this to new value and services that customers can experience."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:04:00
KSD Foundation Donates 33 Million Won to Support Vulnerable Households Ahead of Chuseok The KSD Foundation has stepped in to support 220 vulnerable households in Seoul with their Chuseok shopping expenses, donating a total of 33 million won. Each household will receive 150,000 won worth of Onnuri gift certificates to assist with their purchases and encourage the use of traditional markets.On September 15, the KSD Foundation delivered the 33 million won donation to the Seoul branch of the Korean Red Cross during a traditional market shopping event held at their Seoul office.The funds will be used to cover shopping costs for socially disadvantaged groups, including elderly individuals living alone and grandparent-headed households in Seoul. Each household will receive 150,000 won in Onnuri gift certificates.The shopping event will take place at 23 traditional markets in Seoul before Chuseok. Volunteers from the Korean Red Cross will accompany the selected households to assist them with their shopping and provide emotional support.The KSD Foundation's traditional market shopping initiative began in 2011 and is now in its 16th year. The program has been held in Busan during the Lunar New Year and in Seoul for Chuseok, contributing approximately 790 million won to support over 6,250 households to date.The KSD Foundation explained that this initiative is part of their corporate social responsibility efforts to support neighbors in need during the holiday season and to revitalize traditional markets.Yoon Soo, the chairman of the KSD Foundation, expressed, "I hope our neighbors have a bountiful Chuseok," and added, "We will continue to practice sharing that strengthens our community."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:00:00