Vice Minister Ryu Jemyung of Science and ICT: "Three-Year Intensive Investment in Physical AI for Systematic Technology Acquisition"

'2026 World IT Show' Opens at COEX
Over 460 Companies and Organizations from 17 Countries Participate

Ryu Jemyung, Second Vice Minister of the Ministry of Science and ICT, is delivering the opening address at the opening ceremony of the '2026 World IT Show' on the 22nd. Photo by Seo Sojung.

On April 22, Ryu Jemyung, Second Vice Minister of the Ministry of Science and ICT, announced, "Based on the recently released 'Physical Artificial Intelligence (AI) Core Competency Acquisition Strategy,' we plan to systematically secure physical AI technologies that can supplement and replace human roles through focused investment over the next three years."

At the opening ceremony of the '2026 World IT Show' held at COEX in Seoul under the theme 'From Thought to Action: AI Moves Reality,' Vice Minister Ryu stated, "We will strengthen the competitiveness of Korea's AI and ICT industries and support AI technologies to drive real change across manufacturing and service sectors." This year's World IT Show, which will be held for three days from April 22 to April 24, features participation from over 460 domestic and international companies and organizations from 17 countries.

Vice Minister Ryu emphasized, "Countries around the world are fiercely competing and making massive investments to secure AI competitiveness. This year’s AI budget, totaling approximately 10 trillion won, is the largest ever and will be used to support technology, infrastructure, talent, and the entire industry, laying the foundation to further enhance Korea's AI competitiveness."

Choi Minhee, Chairperson of the Science, ICT, Broadcasting, and Communications Committee, said in her welcoming remarks, "Last year, the National Assembly passed the AI Framework Act, making Korea the second country in the world to do so. Even Europe, which had focused on regulation, is now overhauling its approach. The National Assembly is working to develop legislation that relaxes regulation and focuses on fostering innovation."

Chairwoman Choi added, "Only when the era arrives where physical AI allows our elderly parents to receive care will the public truly feel the impact. We will accelerate the establishment of legal frameworks so that new physical AI products can be used safely in their early stages without risk."

On the exhibition floor, companies promoting physical AI and advanced technologies set up booths to welcome visitors. Leading domestic IT and telecommunications companies such as Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus, along with major players in robotics, AI semiconductors, and platforms, showcased their latest technologies.

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