Seoul: The defense ministry is advancing plans to establish a new deputy minister position dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI) policy to enhance AI utilization within the military, as per a report submitted to an opposition lawmaker on Tuesday. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to integrate AI into military operations and strengthen defense capabilities.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the reform plan includes the creation of a position that will oversee all AI-related functions, such as logistics, information, and military assets. This development was disclosed by Rep. Kang Dae-sik from the main opposition People Power Party. The ministry aims to implement this organizational change by January.

The establishment of the deputy minister role underscores the increasing significance of AI technology in modern warfare, as the military continues to adopt advanced systems to enhance its operational effectiveness. The deputy minister will manage four bureaus focused on AI-related tasks, involving approximately 220 personnel. Notably, this will mark the re-establishment of the deputy defense minister position, which has been vacant since 2006.