National Institute of Korean Language Promotes Development of Korean-style AI Using Korean Language Corpus

Developing Korean Language Expertise Axis and Information Input
Also Developing National Writing Ability Diagnostic System

The National Institute of the Korean Language is building a high-quality Korean language corpus (linguistic data collected in a form readable by computers) for the development of Korean-style artificial intelligence (AI) technology. On the 29th, Director Jang Sa-won reported this new year’s work plan, centered on this content, to Yoo In-chon, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism. They emphasized the importance of developing Korean-style AI technology in preparation for the activation of generative AI such as GPT and Hyper Clover X. Based on expertise in the Korean language, Korean language and cultural information will be input. Additionally, the evaluation system that comprehensively diagnoses AI’s Korean language ability will be strengthened to support AI in using Korean naturally. In particular, the “AI Speech Evaluation,” which was checked through competitions until last year, will be fully operated this year. Minister Yoo said, “As the digital environment rapidly changes, the language usage environment is also changing quickly,” and added, “I hope you fulfill your role for the proper use of language by the public.”

This year, the Institute of the Korean Language plans to establish a foundation for improving the public’s Korean language ability by conducting the 3rd Korean Language Proficiency Survey and developing a system to diagnose the public’s writing skills. They will also create a literacy education program at the Korean Language Culture School to enhance literacy. Furthermore, the diagnosis and evaluation of official documents, which convert loanwords, Sino-Korean words, and technical terms into easy language, will be expanded from central administrative agencies and local governments to education offices and public institutions. In addition, a customized Korean language teacher competency enhancement program will be operated for overseas university students majoring in Korean (language) studies and Korean language teachers active abroad, and Korean sign language and braille materials and dictionaries will be developed to improve communication environments for the visually and hearing impaired. Minister Yoo stated, “The Korean language is the source of cultural creation and the greatest cultural asset,” and added, “I hope we become a cultural society that uses our language and writing with dignity.”