Seoul: The government will speed up artificial intelligence (AI) transformation in the public sector, including expanding the use of a trial AI-driven work system to all central government agencies by the end of the year, Prime Minister Han Seong-sook said Thursday. "AI is no longer just the domain for technology or industry. It demands us to change the way we work and live. The government is going to transform itself in line with these changes," Han said during a national policy coordination meeting. "The AI democratic government we aim for is a capable and kind government befitting the AI era."

According to Yonhap News Agency, Han announced that the "On-AI" system, an AI-driven work platform initially used at four ministries on a trial basis since April, would be expanded to all 47 central government agencies by the end of the year. The government plans to release 100 types of core public data for various AI-based applications. "We will focus on cutting down on simple and repetitive work through AI to create an environment where civil servants can concentrate more on essential tasks to improve people's lives," she stated.

Her office further elaborated that the government aims to transition into a "people-centered AI government" where AI facilitates the provision of welfare services tailored to each individual, realizing a "warm and inclusive administration that leaves no blind spot." Specific projects and additional details will be determined soon.

During the meeting, officials also addressed strategies to minimize damage from heavy rains, such as strengthening patrols in high-risk areas and preemptively controlling access to these regions. Additionally, preparations for an international aviation safety assessment by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) were discussed. This assessment, scheduled for December, will be the first in 18 years.

Back in 2008, South Korea achieved the top ranking globally in aviation safety, with a 98.89 percent implementation rate of international safety standards, surpassing Canada, the United States, China, and Germany. "The government plans to use the upcoming assessment as an opportunity to further solidify and elevate our country's aviation safety foundations," the office stated.