According to OpenAI, South Korea currently boasts the largest number of paying ChatGPT subscribers outside of the United States, underscoring the nation's enthusiastic adoption of advanced AI technologies. This high level of engagement has clearly positioned South Korea as a strategic market for the San Francisco-based AI research and deployment company.
To further support its growing operations and foster local collaborations, OpenAI has initiated the recruitment of staff dedicated to managing partnerships within South Korea. The company anticipates releasing more detailed information regarding these new hires and partnership initiatives in the coming months.
Jason Kwon, OpenAI's Chief Strategy Officer, highlighted the strategic importance of the move in a statement, emphasizing South Korea's robust AI landscape. "Korea's full-stack AI ecosystem makes it one of the most promising markets in the world for meaningful AI impact, from silicon to software, and students to seniors," Kwon stated, acknowledging the nation's comprehensive capabilities across the AI spectrum.
This expansion follows earlier announcements of OpenAI's intent to develop artificial intelligence products specifically for the South Korean market in collaboration with local chat app operator Kakao. The partnership aims to leverage South Korea's vibrant digital ecosystem and integrate cutting-edge AI functionalities into widely used platforms.
In a further sign of OpenAI's commitment to engaging with key stakeholders in South Korea, local media has reported that Chief Strategy Officer Jason Kwon, currently visiting Seoul, is scheduled to hold meetings with officials from both the main opposition Democratic Party and the ruling People Power Party. These discussions are likely to cover regulatory frameworks, AI development strategies, and potential collaborations that could shape the future of AI adoption in the country.