The South Korean government is set to enhance its ports with artificial intelligence (AI) technology, aiming for a transformation into smart ports. The initiative envisions creating ports that function as a single intelligent robot by securing a foundation in Physical AI technology and revitalizing the related industrial ecosystem.
On July 23, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries unveiled its 'Physical AI Port Strategy' during the 11th Science and Technology Ministers' Meeting. The ministry presented the vision of 'Leading Global Smart Ports through K-Physical AI.' To achieve this, it will implement four key strategies: securing a foundation for Physical AI port technology, innovating ports and backward areas based on domestic technology, revitalizing the Physical AI port industry ecosystem, and refining institutional and implementation foundations.
To achieve port autonomy, the ministry plans to develop technologies that enable port cranes and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) to autonomously perceive and assess their surroundings during operations. Additionally, it aims to accelerate the development of unmanned technologies for high-risk tasks such as securing and dismantling container fastening devices, as well as a port operation system that utilizes AI to analyze real-time port conditions and optimize overall operations.
The ministry is also considering establishing a 'Advanced Port Technology Center' at Gwangyang Port, which would link real and virtual ports. This center would consolidate common support functions such as data collection and technology verification, providing on-site support for technology development and application.
Furthermore, the ministry is pushing for innovation in ports and backward areas based on domestic technology. It plans to fully implement research and development (R&D) outcomes at Jinhae New Port, establishing it as a leading model for Physical AI ports in its first phase. Based on this initial phase, the ministry anticipates the creation of a 25 trillion won market for AI port technology, including autonomous handling equipment.
In addition, the ministry aims to establish a specialized AI data center for ports, build smart shared logistics centers, and create a convergence port AI transformation (P. AX) cluster that integrates manufacturing, ports, and logistics, positioning backward areas as hubs for Physical AI innovation.
The strategy also includes measures to revitalize the Physical AI port industry ecosystem. An 'AX Support Platform' will be established to assist in the design and development of AI agents, and the ministry will leverage funds from the Korea Maritime Promotion Corporation to encourage autonomous market expansion.
Through government-to-government cooperation and private networks, such as the 'Korea-UAE Physical AI Port and Logistics Project,' the ministry will support the overseas market entry of the port technology industry. To this end, the government, port corporations, operators, and equipment companies will work as a unified team to develop 'K-Physical AI Port Solutions' and support the exploration of overseas markets for large package projects.
Finally, the ministry will revise the 'Port Technology Industry Act' to establish a legal foundation for the transition to Physical AI ports. The law will encompass Physical AI equipment and systems for ports and broaden cooperation with other sectors through participation in the Physical AI Alliance.
Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Hwang Jong-woo stated, "Our country, which has strengths in both manufacturing and AI, has a great opportunity to seize technology and market leadership. We will actively support the entire process from technology development to commercialization, enhancing the national logistics competitiveness and underpinning Korea's rise as a top three AI powerhouse."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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