Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority Accelerates Discussions on Building AI Education Center in Songdo... Task Force Formed

The Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority announced on the 6th that it will officially begin discussions to establish an 'Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Metaverse Exhibition, Experience, and Education Center' in the neighborhood park of Block G5-2 in the Songdo International Business District.

The construction of the AI Education Center is a project worth 16 billion KRW, promoted according to the 'Agreement for Public Contribution and Development Activation' signed in July 2019 between Songdo International City Development Co., Ltd. (NSIC), the developer of the Songdo International Business District, and Incheon City. It aims to nurture internationally competitive professionals and develop a core hub to lead the 4th Industrial Revolution.

Accordingly, the Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority will form a task force led by the deputy director, including relevant departments and NSIC, to discuss overall matters such as AI education center content development and operation, urban landscape, building permits, urban planning, and park greenery, and will establish a construction plan that meets these requirements.

Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority (G Tower) Exterior View

Earlier last month, the Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority conducted a survey on the promotion of AI education operation projects for nurturing corporate support personnel targeting startup companies within the Incheon Free Economic Zone.

The survey results highlighted difficulties in recruiting IT professionals, shortages of developers and AI experts, and the need for AI consulting to support companies. Securing next year’s budget, the authority plans to provide cloud infrastructure training, big data analysis education, and AI project practice to cultivate AI professionals required by companies.

Additionally, the plan is to enhance companies’ AI technical capabilities through practical, customized education by providing consulting needed by companies and promoting joint projects to develop AI services.

Kim Jin-yong, head of the Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority, stated, "The establishment of the AI Education Center in the era of the 4th Industrial Revolution is a springboard for the Incheon Free Economic Zone’s Songdo International City to become a hub for AI and IT." He added, "We will do our best to discover various content and programs to nurture AI professionals needed by resident companies and provide services demanded by citizens, and to establish and operate the AI Education Center."