Sejong: Science Minister Bae Kyung-hoon announced the government's intention to implement punitive fines on businesses experiencing repeated data breaches, addressing growing concerns over personal information security. The announcement was made during a policy briefing at the Ministry of Science and ICT to President Lee Jae Myung.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Bae emphasized the establishment of a stringent responsibility-based system to hold businesses accountable for repeated security lapses. The initiative aims to strengthen the government's data security capabilities and demonstrate solidarity with citizens in combating hacking attacks.
This proposal follows several data breaches this year, involving major companies like SK Telecom Co., KT Corp., and Coupang Inc., which have impacted a significant number of South Koreans.
In addition to addressing data security, Bae highlighted South Korea's ambitions in the global artificial intelligence (AI) sector. The country plans to develop one of the world's top 10 AI models by next year. This model will be available as open source for various applications, including defense, manufacturing, and culture.
Bae also introduced the K-Moonshot project, focusing on high-risk research initiatives crucial for the country's future. By 2030, South Korea aims to achieve a technology level equivalent to 85 percent of the United States, which was estimated at 81.5 percent in 2022.
Efforts will be made to develop core technologies in areas such as humanoids, next-generation chips, rare earth materials, and affordable clean energy. These sectors are recognized for their high risks and potential significant outcomes, Bae stated.
The government plans to invest an additional 5.9 trillion won (US$4 billion) in strategic sectors, including bio, quantum, and nuclear fusion projects, to accelerate their commercialization. Basic science research projects are set to comprise 10 percent of the government's research and development budget.
Furthermore, the government aims to establish a private sector-led small modular reactor by 2030, supported by a 1.2 trillion-won budget, and to position South Korea as an AI hub in the Asia-Pacific region by attracting competitive experts and startups.
The ministry also emphasized strengthening physical AI capabilities in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and shipbuilding. South Korea plans to enhance AI research collaboration with the U.S. while also seeking partnerships with China in robotics and drones.