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  • North Koreas Per Capita Income Just 1/29 of South Koreas Amid Deepening Inequality
    North Korea's Per Capita Income Just 1/29 of South Korea's Amid Deepening Inequality North Korea has seen rapid marketization, but the institutional framework to support it remains inadequate. Analysis indicates that when external economic shocks occur, the impact is disproportionately felt by the lower and middle classes, who lack political connections and capital, exacerbating income inequality.According to a report released by the Bank of Korea on August 23, North Korea's per capita nominal Gross National Income (GNI) is projected to be 1.72 million won in 2024, just 1/29th of South Korea's income. This level is comparable to the lowest 'low-income' group as classified by the World Bank.The North Korean economy operates under a dual structure, consisting of an official sector based on a planned economy and an informal sector centered around markets.The Bank of Korea estimates that the informal market sector has grown significantly, now comparable to the official sector. Previous studies indicate that approximately 70% of the average resident's income is earned in the market.However, the pace of marketization has outstripped the establishment of supporting institutions. While market activities have spread widely, legal and institutional protections such as fair competition, tax and redistribution systems, and property rights have not been adequately established. This has led to a 'quasi-marketization' structure where economic opportunities are distributed unevenly based on political connections and access to capital, according to the Bank of Korea.This structure has shown that external economic shocks further exacerbate income inequality. Analysis reveals that from 2015 to 2019, income inequality in North Korea's informal sector significantly worsened compared to the period from 2011 to 2014.The widening inequality is attributed more to a substantial increase in the lower-income population than to growth in the upper-income group. Even after economic shocks are mitigated and market activities recover, once income inequality has expanded, it tends to persist for a considerable time.The Bank of Korea assesses that these findings indicate that merely expanding the appearance of a market economy does not guarantee equitable improvement in the economic conditions of residents.Jo Yong-sin, head of the Economic Security Research Office at the Bank of Korea, stated, "External economic shocks in a quasi-marketization context can provide opportunities for the upper class to increase their economic benefits through rent-seeking and risk-free arbitrage, while the relatively economically vulnerable middle and lower classes may absorb the shocks, leading to asymmetric outcomes."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 12:04:20
  • Launch of Third River Basin Management Committee with 91 Appointed Members
    Launch of Third River Basin Management Committee with 91 Appointed Members The third River Basin Management Committee has been established to oversee water management policies and resolve water disputes in the four major river basins: the Han River, Nakdong River, Geum River, and Yeongsan-Sumjin Rivers.The National Water Management Committee, which operates under the direct authority of the President, announced on the 23rd that it appointed a new private chairperson and 91 private members to the four river basin committees on the 21st. Their term will last until August 20, 2029.The River Basin Management Committee was established in 2019 as a public-private joint committee under the Basic Water Management Act. It is responsible for reviewing and deciding on major water management policies within the basins, evaluating local government water-related plans, and mediating water disputes between regions.The Han River Basin Management Committee is chaired by Professor Kwon Soo-yeol from Korea National Open University and consists of 25 private members. The Nakdong River Basin Management Committee is led by Professor Joo Gi-jae, an honorary professor at Pusan National University, while the Geum River Basin Management Committee is chaired by Choi Jin-ha, a non-executive director at the National Institute of Ecology. The Yeongsan-Sumjin River Basin Management Committee is chaired by Professor Lee Hak-young from Chonnam National University, with 22 private members each in the Nakdong, Geum, and Yeongsan-Sumjin committees.The private members are experts with knowledge and field experience in water management, including water quality, aquatic ecosystems, and water resources.Ex officio members include the co-chair, Minister of Climate Kim Seong-hwan, as well as mayors and governors, department heads from relevant ministries, local heads of the Ministry of Climate, the Korea Water Resources Corporation, the Korea Rural Community Corporation, the Korea Environmental Corporation, and Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, totaling 74 members.Each committee will operate three to four subcommittees, including planning, policy, and water dispute mediation. They will review the compliance of water-related plans established by local governments and identify integrated water management improvement tasks and future challenges for each basin. The committees will also enhance cooperation and communication among local stakeholders.Kim Jwa-gwan, the private chairperson of the National Water Management Committee, expressed hope that the committee would find solutions to water issues, such as extreme droughts and floods caused by climate change, by reflecting local characteristics and residents' opinions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 12:04:20
  • Prime Inc. Leads in AI-Driven K-Disaster and Safety Technologies
    Prime Inc. Leads in AI-Driven K-Disaster and Safety Technologies "We are building a system that predicts and prevents risks rather than responding after problems occur by utilizing artificial intelligence (AI)," said Kim Hwa-taek, CEO of Prime Inc., during an interview with reporters at the company's headquarters in Gayang-dong, Seoul, on August 20.Prime Inc., recognized as an outstanding company in management innovation by the Korea Management Innovation Small and Medium Enterprises Association (Mainbiz Association), was established in 2005 as a specialist in disaster prevention and safety management. The company has expanded its business from managing fire safety in buildings to specialized safety areas requiring high-level technology, such as highway tunnels and nuclear power plants. It handles 50% of fire and ventilation-related services for 270 tunnels managed by the Korea Expressway Corporation and 80% of services related to nuclear power plants.The company's competitive edge is supported by digital technologies, including AI. Prime Inc. took the lead in adopting digital technologies, starting with the development of a smart fire safety management system in 2010. Kim noted, "The fire industry was underdeveloped, and there was no one to create the programs we wanted, so we spent about seven years developing the system ourselves."Through a mobile application linked to this system, Prime Inc. communicates with customers in real time. In the past, if a fire alarm malfunctioned, staff had to respond on-site, but now they can check site photos and equipment information through the app to identify the cause and provide guidance on corrective actions. As a result, unnecessary emergency responses have decreased from 1,500 to about 750 annually.Prime Inc. also developed the country's first mobile app for evaluating the performance of jet fans, which are installed in large tunnels. This allows for monitoring and managing the condition of jet fans, including maintenance history and malfunction status, without needing to visit the site.The company's leading technology became a springboard for growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. The early establishment of a non-face-to-face smart safety management system gained attention as demand for contactless services surged, leading to a nearly threefold increase in clients. Revenue also saw significant growth, rising from 5 billion won in 2017 to 20.1 billion won in 2025, a 302% increase, while the number of employees grew from 68 to 195 during the same period. Prime Inc. has ranked first in national evaluations of fire facility management for three consecutive years starting in 2024, following top rankings in 2020 and 2021.Looking ahead, Prime Inc. plans to further expand its safety management capabilities using AI. The company aims to integrate predictive failure systems used in power plants into building safety management to identify equipment anomalies in advance. This approach will notify building owners of potential failures and help them prepare necessary actions, such as parts replacements.Additionally, Prime Inc. is developing an integrated safety management system that encompasses fire, electrical, elevator, and mechanical systems on a single platform. Kim stated, "We are building an AI-based system that allows users to check and respond to issues with electricity, fire safety, or elevators through one app."With proven technology in South Korea, the company is also pursuing entry into international markets. Kim emphasized, "South Korea is at the forefront of fire safety inspections globally," and mentioned that they are considering applying their smart safety management system overseas.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 12:04:10
  • Seven Industries, Including Automotive and Secondary Batteries, to Receive Integrated Environmental Permits
    Seven Industries, Including Automotive and Secondary Batteries, to Receive Integrated Environmental Permits 자동차와 이차전지 등 7개 업종이 통합환경허가 대상에 새로 포함된다. 새 제도는 업종별 준비 상황에 따라 2028년과 2029년부터 단계적으로 적용되며 기존 사업장에는 4년의 허가 유예기간이 주어진다.기후에너지환경부는 이 같은 내용을 담은 '환경오염시설의 통합관리에 관한 법률' 시행령·시행규칙 개정안을 오는 26일부터 10월 6일까지 입법예고한다고 23일 밝혔다.통합환경허가는 오염물질 배출량이 많은 대기·수질 1·2종 사업장을 대상으로 대기와 수질, 폐기물 등 최대 10종의 환경 인허가를 하나로 통합하는 제도다. 사업장이 주변 환경에 미치는 영향을 분석해 맞춤형 배출기준을 설정하고 업종과 공정 특성에 맞는 오염물질 저감기술을 적용하도록 한다.이번 개정안에 따라 비알코올 음료 제조업과 유지·낙농제품 제조업, 기타 식품 제조업은 2028년 1월부터 통합환경허가 대상이 된다. 자동차 제조업과 이차전지 제조업, 판유리 제조업, 고무제품 제조업에는 2029년 1월부터 적용된다.새로 편입되는 사업장은 총 183곳이다. 2028년 적용되는 3개 업종이 96곳, 2029년 적용되는 4개 업종이 87곳이다. 기존 사업장에는 시행일로부터 4년의 유예기간을 부여해 각각 2032년과 2033년까지 통합허가를 받도록 할 예정이다.통합허가 대상 업종은 기존 27개에서 34개로 늘어난다. 2017년 제도 시행 이후 2024년까지 발전과 철강, 석유화학, 반도체, 시멘트 등 19개 업종의 사업장 1370곳이 통합허가를 받았다.사업장이 매년 제출하는 연간 보고서의 작성 대행 기준도 마련됐다. 보고서 작성을 대행하려는 업체는 통합허가대행업 등록에 필요한 기존 기술인력 5명 외에 별도의 전문인력 2명 이상을 확보해야 한다.보고서를 거짓으로 작성하면 1차 영업정지 6개월, 2차 등록취소 처분을 받는다. 부실하게 작성한 경우에는 경고를 시작으로 위반 횟수에 따라 영업정지와 등록취소 처분이 내려진다.대행업자가 사업장의 허가배출기준과 허가조건 이행 여부를 자체 점검해 연간 보고서에 포함하고 환경청 평가에서 우수성을 인정받으면 정기검사 주기는 현행 최대 3년에서 5년까지 연장된다.기업의 현장 부담을 줄이기 위한 규제 개선 방안도 개정안에 담겼다. 발전소가 전력당국의 급전지시로 급정지하거나 재가동되는 과정에서 불가피하게 배출기준을 일시적으로 초과하면 초과배출부과금을 감면받을 수 있다.상시근로자 50명 미만 중소기업은 환경 분야에서 8년 이상 근무하고 관련 교육을 이수한 사람을 별도의 자격요건 없이 통합환경관리인으로 선임할 수 있다. 중소기업이 중견기업으로 전환된 경우에도 1년간 동일한 기준을 적용한다.김진식 기후부 대기환경국장은 "산업구조와 오염물질 배출 특성의 변화를 반영해 통합허가 대상을 합리적으로 확대했다"며 "환경관리 수준을 높이면서도 기업 현장의 여건을 반영하도록 제도를 지속해서 개선하겠다"고 밝혔다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 12:04:10
  • South Korea to Build AI Training Center in Tanzania with $170 Million Support
    South Korea to Build AI Training Center in Tanzania with $170 Million Support The Ministry of Economy and Finance will establish an advanced technology training center in Tanzania to cultivate professionals in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital fields. The project will receive a $170 million loan from the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF), supporting the entry of domestic AI and edtech companies into the African market.On August 23, the ministry held the 159th EDCF operation committee meeting and approved the construction project for the AI and digital technology training center in Tanzania, along with amendments to the EDCF operational management regulations.The initiative aims to train personnel in Tanzania's AI and digital industries by establishing a training center that will offer four departments: AI, robotics, data analysis, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The government plans to provide a $170 million EDCF loan for this purpose.The training center will feature high-performance AI training facilities equipped with AI computing devices, high-bandwidth memory (HBM), and high-speed networking. The center will also actively utilize domestic AI technologies and educational models in its operations and training programs.This project will be implemented through a 'tied' loan method, which restricts procurement of goods and services necessary for the project to South Korean companies. The government expects this approach will expand opportunities for domestic companies in AI, edtech, and construction sectors to enter the African market.The Tanzanian government plans to use this training center as a model for establishing additional educational institutions and constructing large-scale data centers, which is likely to create further opportunities for domestic companies.The EDCF's review and management system will also be strengthened. In the future, large projects exceeding $100 million will require approval from the fund operation committee, which includes relevant ministries, and the involvement of private experts will be expanded during project implementation.The government has also established a basis for directly proposing projects to developing countries by gathering opinions from relevant ministries. It will clarify the criteria and approval process for feasibility studies and conduct annual assessments of the appropriateness of the EDCF interest rate system, taking necessary actions as needed.A ministry official stated, "This project for the construction of the AI and digital technology training center in Tanzania will accelerate the discovery of K-AI package projects. We will continue to enhance the transparency and fairness of the EDCF by expanding the participation of private experts and relevant ministries."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 12:04:10
  • Paid Infertility Treatment Leave Extended to Four Days with Increased Salary Cap
    Paid Infertility Treatment Leave Extended to Four Days with Increased Salary Cap Starting November 27, the paid portion of infertility treatment leave will increase from 2 days to 4 days. Additionally, the maximum salary cap for workers at priority support companies will rise from 168,000 won to 337,000 won.The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced these changes on August 23, along with the release of a guide titled 'Utilization Guide for Infertility Treatment Leave for Employers and HR Personnel.'Infertility treatment leave is a legal leave that allows workers to take up to 6 days annually for treatments such as artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization. With the extension of the paid leave to 4 days starting November 27, the government subsidy for workers at priority support companies will also increase from 2 days to 4 days.The scope of eligible leave has also expanded. Since August of last year, workers can use this leave not only for medical procedures and recovery periods immediately following treatments but also for necessary preparations before treatments, such as infertility testing and ovulation induction.A new penalty regulation will take effect on November 27, prohibiting employers from treating workers unfavorably for taking infertility treatment leave. Previously, employers were already restricted from disclosing a worker's use of this leave against their will.To alleviate concerns about revealing infertility treatment during the leave application process, some companies have improved the naming and approval procedures for the leave. The Ministry has included examples of companies that minimize personal information exposure in the guide for reference by other businesses.Lotte Shopping's department store division has renamed the leave to 'Family Planning Leave' to prevent the disclosure of treatment details during the application process. EcoPro has implemented a separate approval system where only the HR team can access leave requests, bypassing department heads. Incheon International Airport Security has categorized infertility treatment leave under 'personal leave' to reduce exposure of the leave reason to department heads or colleagues.The documentation required for applying for leave has also been simplified. Since May of this year, workers can submit the 'Notification of Support Decision for Infertile Couples' issued by the Ministry of Health and Welfare instead of a medical institution's diagnosis.The importance of infertility support is growing. According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, 48,981 children were born last year through government and local government support for infertility treatment costs, accounting for 19.2% of all births. This means that approximately 1 in 5 newborns was born with the help of infertility support.Cho Jung-sook, Director of Employment Support Policy at the Ministry of Labor, stated, "As the age of pregnancy and childbirth rises, the need for government support for infertility treatment leave is increasing. We will create an environment where workers can use this system without feeling self-conscious at work."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 12:04:00
  • Energy Self-Sufficient Villages to Utilize Food Waste and Livestock Manure
    Energy Self-Sufficient Villages to Utilize Food Waste and Livestock Manure 음식물류 폐기물과 가축분뇨로 만든 바이오가스와 폐열을 난방·농업에 활용하고 발전 수익을 주민과 나누는 에너지 자립마을 조성이 추진된다. 정부는 올해 후보지 5곳 이상을 선정해 마을당 최대 5억원의 설계비를 지원할 계획이다.기후에너지환경부는 24일 서울 용산구 서울역 스페이스쉐어에서 기초 지방정부를 대상으로 '바이오매스 기반 에너지 자립마을 조성사업' 설명회를 개최한다고 23일 밝혔다.바이오매스 기반 에너지 자립마을은 지역에서 발생한 음식물류 폐기물과 가축분뇨 등 유기성 폐자원을 활용해 에너지를 생산하고 지역에서 소비하는 지산지소형 사업이다. 바이오가스와 폐열은 마을 난방이나 시설하우스 작물 재배 등에 공급하고, 발전으로 발생한 수익은 주민과 공유한다.폐기물 처리 과정에서 발생하는 에너지를 지역에서 다시 이용해 마을의 외부 에너지 의존도를 낮추는 동시에 주민 소득과 지역경제 활성화로 연결하겠다는 구상이다.기후부는 지난 20일부터 지방정부를 대상으로 사업 공모를 진행하고 있다. 다음 달 11일까지 신청서를 접수한 뒤 내·외부 전문가로 구성된 평가위원회의 심사를 거쳐 최종 사업 후보지 5곳 이상을 선정할 예정이다.선정된 마을에는 기본구상과 설계 비용으로 올해 최대 5억원의 국고보조금이 지원된다. 국고보조율은 50%다. 정부는 설계 이후 사업이 실제 시설 조성으로 이어질 수 있도록 향후 에너지 생산·이용 설비 구축 비용도 지원할 방침이다.한국환경공단 바이오가스센터는 공모 신청서 작성에 어려움을 겪는 지방정부를 대상으로 현장 실사와 개별 상담을 제공한다. 기후부는 선정된 마을의 사업계획을 토대로 바이오매스 기반 에너지 자립마을의 표준모델도 연내 마련할 계획이다.김고응 기후부 자원순환국장은 "바이오매스 기반 에너지 자립마을은 폐자원을 에너지로 이용하는 순환고리의 핵심 매개체 역할을 하면서 지역사회에 활력을 가져다줄 것"이라며 "사업의 원활한 추진을 위해 재정적·정책적 지원을 아끼지 않겠다"고 밝혔다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 12:04:00
  • South Korean Prime Minister Emphasizes Urgent Need for Real Estate Stability and Tax Reform
    South Korean Prime Minister Emphasizes Urgent Need for Real Estate Stability and Tax Reform South Korean Prime Minister Han Seung-soo emphasized the urgent need for stabilizing the real estate market and rationalizing the tax system during a high-level government meeting on August 23. He stated that careful planning is essential for real estate tax and housing supply policies.During the meeting held at the Prime Minister's residence in Jongno, Seoul, Han noted, "Tax reform and real estate issues are of significant public interest, and even minor changes in the system can have a substantial impact on people's lives."He added, "We need to examine various aspects closely and consider how to swiftly implement the 2026 tax reform plan and housing supply measures in the metropolitan area, as well as address livelihood legislation."Han stressed the importance of collaboration between the government and the ruling party, stating, "We must review and enhance key points together to improve the lives of our citizens, rather than pushing policies unilaterally. It is crucial to reflect the opinions of the party and the Blue House to develop practical solutions."Regarding the upcoming regular National Assembly session, he mentioned, "The special committee on budget and settlement will kick off, followed by major parliamentary schedules, including government audits. I intend to use this as an opportunity to explain the content and intent of government policies to the public."Han also called for close cooperation between the government and the ruling party during the National Assembly schedule, stating, "If the party can address the areas of public concern, it will greatly aid in effectively communicating the achievements of government policies."He referenced the recent declaration of special disaster areas in parts of Geoje and Tongyeong, which were affected by heavy rainfall. Han assured that the government would make every effort to ensure that affected residents can quickly return to their daily lives, stating, "The economy should improve the lives of the people, and safety is essential for protecting their daily routines."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 11:52:00
  • Government Urged to Provide Clear Housing Supply Plans for Greater Seoul Area
    Government Urged to Provide Clear Housing Supply Plans for Greater Seoul Area 강훈식 대통령 비서실장은 23일 수도권 주택 공급과 관련해 “언제, 어디서, 얼마만큼 공급되는지 명확한 일정을 제시해야 한다”고 강조했다. 강 실장은 이날 서울 종로구 총리공관에서 열린 고위당정협의회 모두발언에서 “주택 공급은 무엇보다 시장에 주는 신호가 중요하다”며 “주거 불안은 막연한 약속이 아니라 구체적인 계획으로 해소할 수 있다”고 밝혔다. 특히 강 실장은 수도권 주택 공급에서 가장 어려운 과제로 용지 확보를 꼽았다. 그는 “수도권 공급 확대의 핵심은 용지 확보”라며 “지역 사정에 밝은 여당 지역위원장과 지방자치단체장들이 단기간에 확보할 수 있는 주택 용지를 제시한다면 청와대가 적극적으로 검토하겠다”고 약속했다. 정부가 공급 물량을 일방적으로 정하는 방식에서 벗어나 지역 현장에 밝은 여당과 지방정부의 제안을 반영해 가용 용지를 추가로 발굴하겠다는 의미로 풀이된다. 또한 강 실장은 내년도 세제개편안에 대해서는 국민 의견을 반영해 정책의 완성도를 높이겠다는 방침을 밝혔다. 강 실장은 정부가 지난 3일 잠재성장률 반등 지원과 민생경제·지방 지원 확대, 공정과세를 위한 조세개혁에 중점을 둔 세제개편안을 발표했다고 설명했다. 이어 “세제개편안은 결정된 정책을 일방적으로 발표한 것이 아니라 국민의 의견을 듣기 위한 출발점”이라며 “이재명 정부는 어느 정부보다 국민의 목소리에 귀를 기울이고 합리적인 의견을 정책에 반영하는 데 주저하지 않고 있다”고 강조했다. 강 실장은 입법예고 기간에 접수된 국민 의견과 당·정부·청와대가 각각 청취한 현장의 목소리를 충분히 검토해야 한다고 주문했다. 그러면서 “현장의 목소리를 다시 세심하게 살펴 정책의 완성도와 국민 수용성을 한층 높여야 한다”고 역설했다. 정기국회를 앞두고 민생·경제 법안의 신속한 처리도 요청했다. 강 실장은 “정책이 국민의 삶 속에서 구현되는 마지막 단계는 입법”이라며 “법과 제도로 완성되지 않으면 국민이 정책의 효과를 체감하기 어렵다”고 지적했다. 이어 “정부는 시급한 민생·경제 법안의 우선순위를 분명히 하고 국회에 법안의 필요성을 설명할 것”이라며 “여야의 폭넓은 공감대를 이끌어 국민에게 필요한 법안이 처리되기를 바란다”고 밝혔다. 강 실장은 “당·정·청이 원팀이 돼 긴밀히 소통하고 국민이 체감하는 성과로 답해야 한다”며 “국민께 드린 약속을 하나하나 성과와 결과로 만들어 대체 불가 대한민국으로 나가겠다”고 말했다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 11:44:10
  • AI Revolutionizes Agriculture in South Korea
    AI Revolutionizes Agriculture in South Korea "The transition to artificial intelligence is an innovation that goes beyond simple technology adoption, enhancing the reliability and quality of public services provided by the Korea Rural Community Corporation (KRC)." Kim In-jung, president of KRC, is accelerating the integration of AI in agriculture. The focus is on using AI to predict droughts and water shortages, manage agricultural water efficiently, and ensure safety in rural areas. At first glance, agriculture and AI may seem unrelated. However, with the aging rural population, labor shortages, and the climate crisis, agriculture has emerged as one of the sectors most in need of AI. Before AI can directly engage in farming, a competition has begun to create an "AI-friendly farming environment." Data is the new competitive edge in agriculture. One of the most critical resources in agriculture is water. It is essential to accurately assess when it will rain, how much water is left in reservoirs, and which areas require more water. The challenge lies in climate change. With extreme droughts and heavy rainfall becoming more frequent, managing agricultural water based solely on past experiences and statistics is increasingly difficult. This is where AI comes into play. By analyzing vast amounts of data, including weather information, reservoir levels, crop conditions, and water demand, AI can identify the likelihood of droughts and water shortages earlier. It can also provide more precise assessments of when and where water is needed. A key feature of KRC's AI transition is that AI will be integrated directly into rural areas. Satellites monitor farmland, and AI predicts water shortages. KRC is also participating in the European Union's research and innovation program, Horizon Europe, this year. Through the PROTEUS project, which involves 19 institutions across nine countries, KRC aims to combine satellite data with on-site measurements. The goal is to develop a model that can detect drought and crop stress early and suggest optimal agricultural water supply solutions. Satellites observe the condition of farmland. Sensors collect data from the field. AI analyzes the potential for drought and water shortages. Based on these results, agricultural water is supplied to the necessary areas. In the past, responses were made after droughts occurred; in the future, AI will predict droughts, allowing proactive measures in agriculture. AI also detects algal blooms before they occur. AI is being utilized for water quality management in agricultural reservoirs. KRC employs an AI water quality prediction system that uses historical water quality data and weather information to predict reservoirs at high risk for algal blooms and respond proactively. Previously, the approach was to check the site and respond after algal blooms occurred. With AI, the process changes. Data is collected, and AI analyzes risks, allowing for early identification of reservoirs that are likely to have problems. The true value of AI lies not in quickly generating reports after issues arise but in detecting risks before they become problems. Kim In-jung's bold move: KRC-AX Kim is expanding this transformation beyond individual projects to a comprehensive AI transition across the organization. KRC launched the KRC-AI Strategy Committee at the end of 2025 and established the KRC-AX initiative. Kim serves as the committee's chair. Key objectives include building an AX foundation, achieving zero major accidents through AI, innovating operations via AI, and engaging the public with AI. Ethical standards for AI have also been established to prepare for potential risks associated with expanded AI use. This is not merely about introducing a few AI programs in the information department; it signifies a fundamental shift in how agriculture and rural management will be conducted, centered around AI. AI colleagues will also emerge alongside employees. AI is making its way into KRC's offices as well. The organization is implementing a KRC generative AI system that provides employees with relevant information by searching internal documents and data in response to their inquiries. KRC handles many specialized tasks related to farmland, agricultural water, rural development, and production infrastructure. The vast amount of accumulated project data, regulations, and field experience over decades is significant. By connecting this knowledge with AI, the experiences held by individual employees can be shared across the entire organization. Kim described this as "a turning point that fundamentally innovates the way the organization operates and its decision-making structure." Employees will transition from merely searching for documents to making decisions alongside AI. AI will also be the first to identify risks in rural areas. KRC manages not only farmland but also numerous facilities such as reservoirs, waterways, and drainage systems across the country. Thus, safety management is a crucial area for AI application. One of the main strategies of KRC-AX is achieving zero major accidents through AI. The use of smart safety equipment, such as AI CCTV, will help identify risks on-site more quickly. In the future, if AI analyzes data collected by sensors and CCTV in real-time, the chances of detecting risky behaviors or anomalies in facilities that humans might overlook will increase. This represents a shift from post-incident investigations to a proactive safety management approach where AI identifies potential accidents before they occur. Next comes "Agricultural Physical AI." What is noteworthy is the next phase. Currently, AI primarily plays a role in data analysis and supporting human judgment. However, when AI connects with agricultural machinery, robots, reservoirs, waterways, and automated agricultural facilities, the narrative changes. Weather AI predicts rainfall. Agricultural water AI calculates the amount of water needed for each crop. Sensors monitor the status of reservoirs and waterways. Automated facilities deliver water where needed. Robots and autonomous agricultural machinery operate based on crop conditions. This is the vision of "Agricultural Physical AI." KRC's strength lies here. While it is not a big tech company developing AI models, it possesses vast physical environments such as farmland, reservoirs, waterways, and drainage systems where AI can operate effectively. This could become a massive testbed where AI and the real world intersect. Could South Korea's "AI agriculture" become an export industry? The potential extends beyond domestic borders. Agriculture worldwide faces similar challenges as South Korea. Climate change is exacerbating water shortages, and rural populations are declining. Productivity must increase while using less water and energy. If South Korea can integrate its expertise in agricultural water management, smart farming, agricultural machinery, and AI prediction technologies, a new export model could emerge. Rather than exporting a single smart farm, the goal would be to export a "K-AI agricultural package" that combines agricultural water management, smart farming, agricultural machinery, and AI. This approach could create new markets for South Korean agricultural AI, especially in countries in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa that are simultaneously facing water shortages and labor shortages in rural areas. The era of AI in agriculture is upon us. The national transition to AI is not limited to semiconductors, data centers, and manufacturing. Agriculture, directly linked to food production, is also at the forefront of the AI transition. KRC's AI strategy has two main branches. One is to transform the working methods of employees and the organization through generative AI. The other is to bring AI into agricultural water management, drought, water quality, disaster, and safety management in real rural settings. When these two trends converge, the face of agriculture will change. Agriculture will shift from being experience-dependent to data-driven, from reactive to proactive in disaster response, and from human-only management to a collaborative approach between AI and humans. The core of this transformation is not AI replacing human labor in farming but rather enabling humans to farm more safely and efficiently with less water and labor. This is why KRC, which has managed South Korea's agricultural water and farmland, is gaining renewed attention in the AI era. : Kim In-jung, President of KRC: Kim is a seasoned agricultural policy expert, having served as the director of the Rural Policy Bureau and the Food Policy Bureau at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, as well as deputy minister. He was appointed as the 12th president of KRC in May 2025. He leads the KRC-AI Strategy Committee, establishing KRC-AX and ethical standards for AI, and is driving the integration of AI into agricultural water management, disaster response, safety management, and overall internal operations at KRC.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 11:44:00