Collaboration in Artificial Intelligence Between Korea and Saudi Arabia Paves Way for African Involvement in Open Technology
In a significant move to diversify the global AI ecosystem, KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology) and King Saud University (KSU) have announced a strategic partnership aimed at establishing a joint AI research center and promoting open-source AI models.
The collaboration, which took shape during a meeting on July 3 at the KAIST Campus in Seoul, brings together South Korea's expertise in AI technologies, semiconductor development, and applied research with Saudi Arabia's capital and digital infrastructure.
At the heart of this partnership is the creation of a joint AI research center, where both institutions will co-develop open AI models and explore practical industrial applications. The aim is to create a sustainable model that fosters a virtuous cycle of investment, technology, and talent.
The collaboration is also based on open-source principles, with the goal of fostering technological diversity and independence in the face of dominant US-China technological influence. To this end, plans include launching a KAIST-KSU dual graduate degree program and initiating student and faculty exchange initiatives to enhance collaboration and knowledge sharing.
In addition to the joint research, the partnership envisions a broader Tripartite Platform Strategy. This strategy aims to create an open-source-based AI alliance that spans the Middle East, Northeast Asia, and Southeast Asia, providing a neutral alternative to the current technological dominance by the US and China.
The collaboration is expected to grow into a long-term strategic partnership with continued support from KF. The Korea Foundation's Distinguished Guests Invitation Program oversaw the initiation of this collaboration.
President Abdulla Al-Salman, President of King Saud University, and President Kwang Hyung Lee of KAIST are both part of this collaboration. Under Saudi Vision 2030, this partnership with KAIST will serve as a critical foundation for building a competitive AI ecosystem in the Middle East.
The collaboration will contribute to the development of an open AI platform and promote diversity in the global AI ecosystem. Key areas of future cooperation discussed include joint development of open-source AI technologies and digital platforms, expanding exchange programs, and collaborative research in basic science and STEM disciplines.
By promoting open-source AI technologies, the partnership seeks to increase technological access and reduce dependence on proprietary solutions, fostering a more inclusive and diverse AI ecosystem. The ultimate goal is to broaden access to AI technology and create an inclusive innovation environment for more countries and institutions.
The strategic partnership between KAIST and King Saud University, as announced, aims to establish a joint AI research center and promote open-source AI models, utilizing South Korea's expertise in AI technologies and semiconductor development, and Saudi Arabia's digital infrastructure. Moreover, this collaboration plans to create a broader Tripartite Platform Strategy, involving an open-source-based AI alliance that spans the Middle East, Northeast Asia, and Southeast Asia, with the goal of promoting technological diversity and reducing dependence on dominant US-China technological influence.
