Saemangeum Accelerates AI-Based Smart City Development... Ministry Approval Finalized

Saemangeum is accelerating its transition into an artificial intelligence-based future city. According to the Saemangeum Development Authority on April 26, the 'Saemangeum Smart City Plan (2026-2030)' was finalized and publicly announced on April 24 after obtaining approval from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.

Saemangeum Smart Waterfront City Leading District Promotion Strategy. Image courtesy of Saemangeum Development Authority

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This plan is a statutory blueprint established under the 'Smart City Development and Industrial Promotion Act,' encompassing the overall construction of the city, infrastructure, and the introduction of services. It outlines a mid- to long-term development vision centered on carbon neutrality and AI technology. The plan focuses on building a pioneering smart city model that integrates advanced technologies through collaboration with global companies.

The vision has been set as 'Saemangeum, a Carbon-Neutral AI Innovation Smart City.' To realize this vision, four core strategies have been established, to be implemented in stages through 2030: building an eco-friendly energy foundation, establishing an AI-integrated urban management platform and data infrastructure, expanding city services based on physical AI, and constructing a basic service system.

In particular, the plan strengthens collaboration in key areas such as robot manufacturing, AI data centers, and AI hydrogen cities in connection with Hyundai Motor Group's KRW 9 trillion investment plan. Through these efforts, the smart transformation of the entire Saemangeum area will be fully launched. Furthermore, the authority aims to establish the nation's only AI smart city testbed, differentiated from existing cities. The Smart Waterfront City will be developed as a core pilot district, with proven models from this area expanded to the entire region to enhance execution.

City operations will apply 18 basic services, including disaster and safety, environment, and facility management. Additionally, 12 advanced specialized services discovered through cooperation with global companies will be incorporated to provide differentiated urban functions.

Namgoong Jaeyong, Director of Development Projects at the Saemangeum Development Authority, said, "The smart city plan is a crucial starting point for enabling Saemangeum to leap forward as a carbon-neutral, AI-powered, innovative city of the future," adding, "Starting with the Smart Waterfront City, we will gradually expand to develop a world-class smart city with global competitiveness."

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