South Korea is pursuing a new collaboration with Nvidia to rapidly expand its artificial intelligence infrastructure. ICT Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Bae Kyung-hoon met with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang in Seoul to discuss scaling the company's AI computing capacity within the country.
The meeting took place during Nvidia's AI ecosystem event in Seoul. The ministry highlighted key points including the planned delivery of 260,000 Nvidia GPUs, the establishment of Vera Rubin-based AI factories in South Korea, and expanding cooperation between Nvidia and Korean universities, research institutions, and companies.
Vera Rubin-Based AI Factories on the Agenda
Bae Kyung-hoon requested Nvidia to work towards launching AI factories based on the Vera Rubin NVL72 system in South Korea by the end of the year. These systems are specialized infrastructures used for training and running AI models.
The minister emphasized that South Korea can leverage its strengths in semiconductors, manufacturing, and AI through strategic collaboration with Nvidia. According to Bae, the goal is not just to exchange components and infrastructure but to create tangible applications across various industries.
Focus on Physical AI and Research Center
The discussions also covered how Nvidia’s full-stack physical AI technologies could integrate with South Korea’s industrial and academic ecosystems. Physical AI includes systems used in robots, machines, and factories.
Both parties considered the possibility of Nvidia establishing a research and development center in South Korea in the near future. Bae Kyung-hoon expressed hope that this collaboration would significantly advance the country’s capabilities, especially in physical AI.
Huang’s Busy Seoul Schedule
Jensen Huang’s visit to Seoul involved more than just this meeting. The Nvidia CEO also met with executives from Samsung Electronics, SK Group, Hyundai Motor Group, LG Group, Naver, and local startups at company offices.
Additionally, Huang visited the Bundang area of Gyeonggi Province and Seoul National University, engaging with students and researchers. These interactions underscored Nvidia’s aim to strengthen ties with South Korea’s technology and academic communities.
Key topics emphasized by South Korea during the talks included accelerating AI infrastructure, strengthening the link between industry and academia, and expanding the domestic use of next-generation chip technologies.
