Synopsis
On February 4, 2023, SoftBank's Masayoshi Son had a fruitful discussion with Samsung's Lee Jae-yong and OpenAI's Sam Altman in Seoul, focusing on potential collaborations in artificial intelligence amidst a shifting industrial landscape. The meeting emphasized the importance of AI and strategic partnerships.Key Takeaways
- Masayoshi Son discussed AI initiatives with Samsung and OpenAI.
- The Stargate project aims to enhance AI infrastructure in the U.S..
- Lee Jae-yong's first public event post-acquittal.
- Focus on South Korean companies' role in the AI sector.
- New joint venture SB OpenAI Japan established.
Seoul, Feb 4 (NationPress) SoftBank Group leader Masayoshi Son stated on Tuesday that he had a “very good discussion” with Samsung Electronics Co. Chairman Lee Jae-yong and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, as the trio convened to explore collaboration in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) amidst a rapidly evolving industrial environment.
This unusual trilateral meeting occurred at a Samsung Electronics office situated in southern Seoul, following Altman's engagements with SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won and Kakao Corp. CEO Chung Shin-a. Son arrived in Seoul earlier that day.
After the two-hour discussion, Son informed reporters that he had “a very good discussion,” focusing on mobile and AI strategies, according to Yonhap news agency.
When asked whether Samsung would participate in OpenAI's Stargate project, Son merely indicated that they had positive discussions and would maintain dialogue.
He further mentioned that no decisions had been reached regarding the potential involvement of chip giant SK hynix in the project.
The $500 billion Stargate initiative aims to establish new AI infrastructure in the United States in partnership with Japan’s SoftBank and Oracle.
Upon arriving at the venue, Son remarked, “I will discuss an update of the Stargate project and potential collaborations with Samsung Group.”
Son also praised the technological capabilities and skills of South Korean engineers, emphasizing the escalating significance of AI across various nations.
Tuesday’s meeting marked Lee’s first public appearance following his acquittal by an appellate court concerning accounting fraud and irregularities tied to the controversial 2015 merger of two Samsung affiliates.
Altman is in Seoul as part of his Asia tour, where he is engaging with investors, developers, and corporate partners to bolster OpenAI's leadership in the industry.
On Monday in Tokyo, Altman and Son disclosed intentions to create SB OpenAI Japan, a new joint venture designed to capitalize on the Stargate initiative.
Earlier on Tuesday in Seoul, Altman suggested the involvement of South Korean firms in the ambitious Stargate project.
A potential alliance among Samsung Electronics, OpenAI, and SoftBank has garnered significant attention as the global AI sector enters a new competitive phase following the introduction of new AI models by Chinese startup DeepSeek.
