Amendment to AI Framework Act Enforcement Decree Prepared... Career-Interrupted Women and Agricultural Workers Included as AI-Vulnerable Groups

Ministry of Science and ICT to Implement Amended Enforcement Decree on July 21

The Ministry of Science and ICT announced on May 21 that it has prepared and begun a legislative notice of a proposed amendment to the Enforcement Decree of the “Framework Act on the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence and Establishment of a Trust-Based Environment” (AI Framework Act).

Logo of the Ministry of Science and ICT. Provided by the Ministry of Science and ICT

Among the major amendments, the restructuring of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy Committee and support for specialized personnel were implemented immediately on January 22, in line with the effective date of the AI Framework Act. Other items, such as the promotion of the introduction and utilization of artificial intelligence in the public sector that require further specification through subordinate statutes, are scheduled to take effect on July 21.

The Enforcement Decree expands the definition of the AI-vulnerable population to include not only people with disabilities, those aged 65 or older, basic livelihood security recipients, and lower-income groups, but also women with career interruptions, job seekers, employees of SMEs located outside the Seoul metropolitan area, and those engaged in agriculture and fisheries. The Ministry of Science and ICT explained that the expansion of the AI-vulnerable group reflects concerns that those with limited access to high-cost, high-performance AI services may experience real social disparities. The group eligible for support for AI products and services now includes the AI-vulnerable population, as well as talented individuals at universities outside the Seoul metropolitan area and science and engineering professionals.

The scope of AI products and services is defined as products and services that the Korea Artificial Intelligence Industry Association, a statutory body, determines to employ AI technology, as well as any other AI products and services announced by the Ministry of Science and ICT. The verification process by the Korea Artificial Intelligence Industry Association will be conducted jointly with the Korea Information and Communication Technology Association, leveraging their AI expertise for technical review. The AI Framework Act stipulates that when national institutions procure products or services or place orders for services necessary for their work, they should give priority consideration to AI products and services. Additionally, the Act states that, even if national institutions incur losses from the purchase or use of AI products and services, responsible officials will be exempt from liability unless there is intent or gross negligence.

Furthermore, the Enforcement Decree stipulates that the heads of central administrative agencies may request Korea Venture Investment Corporation to establish an investment plan for the AI industry using the Fund of Funds for Venture Investment, reflecting consultations with the Minister of SMEs and Startups. The amendment also details matters related to the establishment, operation, and support of AI research institutes, as well as requirements for their establishment.

Kim Kyungman, AI Policy Chief at the Ministry of Science and ICT, stated, “With the amended decree coming into effect in July, the legal foundation for expanding AI utilization and fostering the industry will be further strengthened,” adding, “We will ensure that the implementation and operation of the system proceed smoothly to actively support the advancement of the AI industry.”

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