South Korea is intensifying efforts to revitalize regional economies by leveraging artificial intelligence in local industries. President Lee Jae-myung and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung visited Jeonbuk University’s Physical AI Lab following a roundtable on regional development. The purpose of the visit was to encourage researchers working to innovate specialized industries and stimulate job creation through AI. The government aims to address economic stagnation and workforce shortages by supporting advanced AI research and practical applications.
The Physical AI Lab focuses on integrating AI into manufacturing processes such as assembly, inspection, and parts transport. President Lee observed collaborative robotics, remote-controlled robot arms, and advanced R&D achievements, including the collection of worker motion data for AI training. Local automotive parts companies in Jeonbuk have already reported significant improvements in productivity, cost reduction, and process efficiency due to AI adoption. These developments are particularly impactful for regions facing labor shortages and aging populations.
Despite being in a preliminary government-supported phase, the lab was established in only four months, demonstrating rapid progress. President Lee emphasized the government’s commitment to large-scale R&D and demonstration projects for AI transformation (AX) in Jeonbuk, Gyeongnam, Gwangju, and Daegu. The government will continue to provide robust support to accelerate AI integration across regional industries. Researchers and industry stakeholders were commended for their swift efforts and encouraged to expand AI-driven innovations nationwide.
Frequently asked questions include: What is the Physical AI Lab’s main focus? The lab specializes in automating manufacturing processes using AI and robotics. How is the government supporting regional AI adoption? The government is funding large-scale R&D and demonstration projects to facilitate AI transformation in key industrial regions. What are the expected outcomes? Enhanced productivity, reduced costs, and improved job creation in local industries are anticipated. President Lee urged ongoing collaboration among academia, industry, and research institutes to ensure AI technologies benefit the broader Korean economy.
The establishment of the Physical AI Lab at Jeonbuk University in just four months underscores South Korea’s determination to accelerate regional AI adoption. Government support for large-scale R&D and demonstration projects is already yielding measurable productivity gains and cost reductions in local industries. The focus on collaborative innovation between academia, industry, and research institutes is a strategic approach to overcoming workforce shortages and economic challenges. As AI-driven technologies expand, ongoing government backing and stakeholder engagement will be crucial for maximizing impact and ensuring nationwide benefits.