Korea expands autonomous driving AI tests, deep-tech startup support

South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Science and ICT Minister Bae Kyung-hoon, approved measures to expand pilot projects for locally developed autonomous driving AI from Gwangju to more regions and larger-scale operations, aiming to collect large volumes of driving data to improve performance and versatility amid competition from the United States and China. The government also plans to establish a cooperation model involving transport companies, unions, autonomous driving firms, and platform operators to address potential conflicts as the technology is commercialized.

The government said Monday it will significantly expand pilot projects for locally developed autonomous driving artificial intelligence AI and strengthen support for deep-tech startups as it seeks to accelerate the commercialization of emerging technologies. According to the Ministry of Science and ICT, a government meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Science and ICT Minister Bae Kyung-hoon approved measures to accelerate the commercialization of autonomous driving AI and support deep-tech startups. Under the autonomous driving roadmap, the government will expand pilot projects that began in Gwangju to more regions and larger-scale operations. The move aims to collect large volumes of driving data to improve the performance and versatility of locally developed autonomous driving AI amid intensifying competition from the United States and China. The government also plans to establish a cooperation model involving transport companies and unions, autonomous driving firms and platform operators to address potential conflicts as the technology is commercialized. It will also promo