The South Korean government has announced a significant policy initiative to advance national AI capabilities by establishing 10 new AI Innovation Graduate Schools (AX Graduate Schools) in 2024. This program, managed by the Ministry of Science and ICT, is designed to foster AX talent—professionals who combine domain-specific expertise with AI skills to drive innovation across key industries. Unlike previous AI graduate schools focused solely on AI technology development, the AX Graduate Schools will systematically train fusion talent capable of applying AI in real-world industrial contexts. The government aims to expand the number of AX Graduate Schools to 22 by 2030, reflecting its commitment to becoming a global leader in AI-driven sectors.
The policy targets universities and industry partners, requiring consortiums of academic institutions and companies to participate. Each AX Graduate School must select up to two fusion domains, such as robotics, semiconductors, automotive, manufacturing, bio-medical, security, energy, finance, telecommunications, space/quantum, or home appliances, and integrate AI into these fields. The curriculum spans foundational to project-based learning, including fast-track master’s and doctoral programs, and allows research projects to substitute for thesis requirements. Collaboration with companies is central, with joint AX research centers established and dual faculty supervision from both academia and industry to ensure practical relevance.
Implementation begins with a public announcement open until July 25, 2024. Selected AX Graduate Schools will receive up to KRW 30 billion annually, with a maximum of KRW 165 billion over six years (4+2 years). Each school must train at least 40 graduate students and include at least one medium or large enterprise in its consortium, with up to two companies allowed. The program distinguishes between ‘designated field tracks’ and ‘open competition tracks,’ selecting five schools for each. Certain universities, including KAIST, GIST, DGIST, UNIST, and existing AI hub universities, are excluded to broaden participation. Regional universities outside the Seoul metropolitan area receive additional points to promote balanced growth.
Frequently asked questions include: What are the eligibility requirements for universities and companies? Universities must form consortiums with at least one medium or large company and train a minimum of 40 graduate students. What fields can be selected for AX specialization? Up to two fields from eleven designated sectors or freely chosen fusion domains in the open competition track. How will AX Graduate Schools be funded? Each school can receive up to KRW 165 billion over six years. Additional questions address the exclusion of certain universities and the regional incentives provided. The Ministry of Science and ICT and the Institute for Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation provide detailed information on their official websites.
The AX Graduate School policy is a forward-looking move by South Korea to bridge the gap between AI technology and industry application. By prioritizing fusion talent and encouraging collaboration between universities and companies, the government is addressing the need for practical, industry-ready AI professionals. The funding structure and regional incentives are likely to foster balanced national growth and innovation. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance South Korea’s competitiveness in AI-driven sectors and support its ambition to become a top-three global AI powerhouse.