SK Group's AI-Driven Growth Strategy
SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won calls for a stronger focus on AI, robotics, and biotechnology to lead the industrial revolution, with a major investment in AI data centers.
SK Group's Vision for AI-Driven Growth
Seoul: SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won has emphasized the importance of artificial intelligence (AI) as a new growth engine. During a recent groupwide business strategy meeting, he urged the company to take a leading role in the AI-driven industrial revolution. "The sustainable survival of companies depends on how they adapt to AI," Chey stated.
Broadening AI Applications
Chey highlighted the need to broaden the application of AI beyond information technology (IT) to areas such as electricity, energy, and biotechnology. This aligns with SK Group's long-term strategy to accelerate its 'fourth quantum leap' by integrating AI into various business operations, including AI data centers, AI agents, robotics, manufacturing, energy, and bio.
Major Investment in AI and Semiconductors
The group has announced plans to invest 82 trillion won (US$59.7 billion) in AI and semiconductor sectors by 2030. A significant step in this direction is the partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to build a hyperscale AI data center in Ulsan, about 305 kilometers southeast of Seoul. The facility is scheduled to begin operations by 2027 and is expected to create up to 78,000 direct and indirect jobs over time.
Enhancing Geopolitical Position
"Hyperscale AI data centers are core national assets that can strengthen our geopolitical position amid intensifying global tech competition and trade pressure," the group stated. Given that AI data centers typically operate for decades, this large-scale investment underscores confidence in Korea's political and economic stability and long-term growth potential.
Joint Efforts and Capabilities
The project brings together key SK Group affiliates, including SK Telecom Co., SK hynix Inc., and SK Gas, leveraging the group's strengths in ICT, energy, and semiconductors. The new data center will enhance the group's capabilities to meet growing demand for generative AI through compute, storage, database, and edge computing solutions.
Future Outlook
The hyperscale AI data center project reflects SK Group and AWS's commitment to advancing cloud infrastructure to support AI innovation. This initiative will not only boost technological advancements but also create numerous jobs and drive economic growth in the region.
[Related: Future of AI in Healthcare]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SK Group's primary focus in the AI-driven industrial revolution?
SK Group is focusing on integrating AI into various business operations, including data centers, robotics, manufacturing, energy, and biotechnology.
How much is SK Group investing in AI and semiconductor sectors?
SK Group plans to invest 82 trillion won (US$59.7 billion) in AI and semiconductor sectors by 2030.
What is the significance of the hyperscale AI data center in Ulsan?
The hyperscale AI data center in Ulsan is a major project that will enhance SK Group's capabilities to meet growing demand for generative AI and create up to 78,000 jobs.
How does the AI data center project align with South Korea's geopolitical position?
The AI data center project is expected to strengthen South Korea's geopolitical position by advancing cloud infrastructure and supporting AI innovation.
Which SK Group affiliates are involved in the AI data center project?
Key SK Group affiliates involved in the AI data center project include SK Telecom Co., SK hynix Inc., and SK Gas.
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