South Korea has initiated a comprehensive policy to accelerate the AI transition of its industrial complexes, led by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. The new Industrial Complex AX Division, part of the M.AX Alliance, was launched in Changwon National Industrial Complex on February 26, 2026. This move is designed to create a regionally-driven innovation platform, combining local growth strategies with national AI policies. The government aims to leverage the concentration of manufacturing companies in 1,341 industrial complexes nationwide to effectively spread AI-based manufacturing innovation.
The policy directly impacts manufacturing companies, AI firms, universities, research institutions, and local governments. Over 500 organizations are participating in the Industrial Complex AX Division, chaired by Park Min-won of Changwon University. The division will coordinate AX projects and policies, connect M.AX Alliance subgroups with resident companies, share best practices and challenges, and establish systems for collecting and utilizing manufacturing data. Ten regional MINI Alliances, including the newly launched Changwon MINI Alliance, will identify region-specific AX tasks and develop practical demonstration models.
Implementation began with the inauguration of the Industrial Complex AX Division and the announcement of the ‘Industrial Complex AX Promotion Strategy.’ The government plans to upgrade core regional industrial complexes into M.AX clusters, support anchor companies in building advanced ‘dark factories,’ and expand AI demonstration testbeds and support centers. In 2026, three additional demonstration complexes will be selected. The policy also includes regular M.AX Caravan events for company matchmaking, R&D and workforce development with local universities, and infrastructure expansion such as AI data centers and specialized 5G networks.
Frequently asked questions include: What is the purpose of the Industrial Complex AX Division? It aims to create a collaborative platform for rapid AI adoption in manufacturing. How will companies benefit? They will gain access to shared AI models, demonstration projects, and support for digital transformation. What infrastructure is being developed? AI data centers and 5G networks are being established to enable real-time, high-capacity manufacturing data processing.
The Industrial Complex AX Division’s launch demonstrates South Korea’s commitment to regional-led AI innovation in manufacturing. The policy’s focus on collaboration, infrastructure, and practical demonstration models is grounded in the participation of over 500 organizations and the creation of MINI Alliances. By combining national strategy with local needs, the initiative is expected to drive rapid digital transformation and strengthen the country’s industrial competitiveness. The government’s support for AI data centers and 5G networks further ensures that manufacturing companies can leverage real-time data processing for enhanced productivity.