The South Korean government has officially launched a large-scale AI talent development policy, aiming to support AI education and training for over one million people within the next five years. This initiative, called the ‘AI+Capability Up Project,’ targets all stages of the labor market, from youth entering the workforce to middle-aged individuals transitioning careers. The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced the plan at the 2nd Science and Technology Ministers’ Meeting held in Seoul on the 18th.
For those entering the labor market, basic AI understanding and job-specific training will be expanded. The ‘Tomorrow Learning Card’ training programs will include AI courses, and the K-Digital Training (KDT) program will be upgraded to focus on training AI engineers. Participation allowances will also increase to 400,000 KRW in the Seoul metropolitan area, 600,000 KRW in non-metropolitan areas, and 800,000 KRW in depopulated regions.
During the active labor market phase, systematic AI training will be provided to small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The Ministry will collaborate with other government bodies to identify companies in need and offer customized training packages. Ten regional SME AI training expansion centers will be designated to train on-site AI specialists who understand both domain knowledge and AI technologies.
In the labor market transition phase, AI education for middle-aged individuals will be strengthened. AI basic training will be offered at 39 Polytechnic campuses nationwide, along with AX training and job transition programs. To enhance the AI education infrastructure, four physical AI training labs and 20 AI joint training centers will be established, and an AI teacher/trainer academy will be launched.