Leading the AI Era: Suncheon City Council Enacts 'Artificial Intelligence Ordinance'

Human-Centered AI: "The First Step Toward Digital Transformation"
A Model Aligned with the Government's 'AI Powerhouse Korea' Policy

Dongjin Yang, Suncheon City Council Member.

Suncheon City in South Jeolla Province has taken its first concrete step toward the era of artificial intelligence (AI). On July 25, the Suncheon City Council passed the Basic AI Ordinance. This ordinance goes beyond simply introducing technology; it serves as a roadmap encompassing administrative innovation, industrial development, and the protection of citizens' rights and interests.

Ten council members, led by Council Member Yang Dongjin, refined the ordinance over several months through expert consultations and the collection of on-site opinions. The ordinance presents clear standards for the safe introduction and operation of AI technology and includes the city's obligation to establish responsible policies at the municipal level.

The most notable feature of the ordinance is its provisions for citizen protection. It clearly stipulates ethical standards to prevent discrimination caused by AI, protect personal information, and respect human dignity. It also includes clauses for establishing an expert-led "AI Committee" and formulating a basic plan every three years.

A Suncheon City official explained, "This ordinance is not a fragmented support measure targeting only specific industries, but rather a comprehensive plan to prepare for the citywide digital transformation," adding, "The focus is on building a foundation for using AI technology safely and beneficially in daily life."

Unlike other local governments, Suncheon City has adopted a multi-layered AI approach that covers not only industrial development but also citizen education, ethics, and all aspects of administration. This is being evaluated as a model that can be closely linked to the government's "AI Powerhouse Korea" policy.

A city council official stated, "This ordinance is the first step toward realizing a 'human-centered smart city,'" emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and improvements in the future.

Meanwhile, the city plans to accelerate improvements in AI-based public services that citizens can experience firsthand, alongside industrial initiatives such as smart agriculture, business process automation, and attracting AI companies.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.