Is OpenAI CSO Kwon Visiting South Korea for AI Partnerships?
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Synopsis
Jason Kwon, OpenAI's CSO, is making a second visit to South Korea in two weeks to explore AI partnerships. With a national investment of $73 billion, South Korea aims to become a leading AI powerhouse. Discover how this visit could reshape the future of AI in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Jason Kwon is visiting South Korea to explore AI partnerships.
- OpenAI has established a Korean subsidiary.
- South Korea aims to invest 100 trillion won in AI development.
- OpenAI plans to open an office in Seoul.
- Collaboration with local companies is a focus for OpenAI.
Seoul, June 11 (NationPress) Jason Kwon, the Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) of OpenAI, is set to arrive in South Korea this Thursday, marking his second trip in just over two weeks to investigate potential collaborations within the artificial intelligence (AI) industry, according to sources in the sector on Wednesday.
This visit follows closely behind the inauguration of President Lee Jae-myung, who has committed to propelling South Korea into the ranks of the world's top three AI leaders through a substantial national investment initiative worth 100 trillion won (US$73 billion).
During his last trip on May 26, Kwon revealed that OpenAI has set up a subsidiary in Korea and intends to establish its third office in Asia—after Tokyo and Singapore—in Seoul in the near future, as reported by the Yonhap news agency.
This initiative is part of OpenAI's extensive global growth strategy. The creator of ChatGPT has recently opened 11 new offices across key cities, including Paris, Brussels, Singapore, London, Dublin, and Tokyo.
“OpenAI views South Korea as a vital partner due to its significant engagement with our services and recognizes the strong potential for collaboration with local companies,” an official from OpenAI stated.
South Korea is ranked among the top 10 nations globally for ChatGPT users, boasting the second-largest number of paid subscribers, only behind the United States.
Prior to formally entering the Korean market, OpenAI has partnered with major companies such as Kakao Corp., Krafton Inc., and SK Telecom Co. to develop AI technologies and data centers.
Kakao is planning to reveal the outcomes of its collaborative project with OpenAI later this year.
Last month, OpenAI announced its operational launch in South Korea as part of its ongoing global expansion of AI infrastructure.
Kwon mentioned that OpenAI has set up a Korean unit and is looking forward to opening its first office in Seoul. “Our next international office will be located here in Seoul,” Kwon informed reporters, noting that this office will be OpenAI's third Asian branch after those in Tokyo and Singapore.
Point of View
I see Jason Kwon's visit as a pivotal moment for South Korea. The government's ambitious plans for AI development, combined with OpenAI's expertise, could lead to significant advancements in the country's tech industry. This partnership could not only enhance local capabilities but also position South Korea as a global leader in AI innovation.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Jason Kwon's visit to South Korea?
Jason Kwon is visiting to explore potential partnerships in the artificial intelligence sector, aiming to collaborate with local companies and contribute to South Korea's AI ambitions.
What has South Korea invested in AI?
South Korea has pledged a national investment initiative worth 100 trillion won (approximately US$73 billion) to become one of the world's top three AI powerhouses.
How does OpenAI view South Korea?
OpenAI considers South Korea a vital partner due to its high engagement with OpenAI's services and sees strong potential for collaboration with Korean companies.
What companies has OpenAI collaborated with in South Korea?
Before formally entering the Korean market, OpenAI has collaborated with major firms like Kakao Corp., Krafton Inc., and SK Telecom Co. on AI technologies.
Where will OpenAI's next Asian office be located?
OpenAI's next Asian office will be in Seoul, marking its third office in Asia after Tokyo and Singapore.
