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"The future of AI semiconductors will evolve beyond simple computation to enhance sensor technology, enabling more precise data detection and connecting it to greater value."

Song Jae-hyuk, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Samsung Electronics, said this while envisioning the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductor technology at 'Semicon Korea 2025,' which opened on the 19th. He stated, "More important than semiconductor innovation is how semiconductors can contribute to a better life for humanity," and predicted that AI technology will develop in a direction that combines with sensors to sense and adapt to the environment.

Comparing AI technology to the human brain, he emphasized, "The human brain has evolved over 3.4 billion years and accounts for only 2% of body weight, yet it consumes about 20% of total energy, making it highly efficient. While AI's computation speed is faster than humans, it still falls short of the human brain in understanding and adapting to the environment."

He also mentioned the pace of AI technology development. He explained, "From the Turing Test in 1950 to ChatGPT-4 in 2023, AI has rapidly advanced over 80 years, and the current accuracy of AI reaches 92.3%. Nevertheless, AI has limitations in fully mimicking human thinking and judgment."

Song Jae-hyuk, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Samsung Electronics, is delivering a keynote speech at 'Semicon Korea 2025' held at COEX, Seoul on the 19th. Photo by Jang Hee-jun

CTO Song also spoke about how AI technology development will change human life. He said, "Ultimately, what matters is a 'Better Life,' and I highlighted the impact of science and technology on humanity."

"In the 17th century, Louis XIV lived with 500 servants but suffered from numerous diseases after turning 40. He battled health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, and back pain from his late 30s. In contrast, we now live much healthier and more convenient lives without personal doctors or 500 servants. This is thanks to the advancement of science and technology."

He referred to the book The Rational Optimist, explaining how technology has revolutionized human life in various fields such as medicine, agriculture, and materials engineering.

"Just 100 years ago, humanity worried about the depletion of resources like grains and oil. But we overcame these challenges thanks to advances in medical technology, agricultural technology, and mineral extraction technology. Today, one person might be using the amount of energy that 100 people used 100 years ago."

He also predicted that AI technology will further accelerate the sharing of knowledge. He mentioned, "We are now in an era of information democratization, where all knowledge is open and collective intelligence is utilized." He added, "AI technology is greatly increasing productivity and efficiency, and I even used ChatGPT's help while preparing today's lecture."

He emphasized, "How much AI will make human life happier and lead it in a better direction ultimately depends on all of us. The role of semiconductors will become even more important in the post-AI era."

The 'Semicon Korea 2025,' which opened with CTO Song's lecture, is the largest semiconductor industry exhibition in Korea and is held from the 19th to the 21st at COEX in Seoul. Global semiconductor companies such as Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, Micron (USA), AMD, and ASML (Netherlands) are participating in large numbers to showcase the latest technologies.

According to the Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International (SEMI), this year's event is themed 'LEAD THE EDGE,' highlighting how the semiconductor industry will lead innovation in the AI era. Over 500 companies are participating with more than 2,300 booths, and about 70,000 visitors are expected.

At this event, Samsung Electronics researchers will present the latest technology trends such as 'DRAM miniaturization' and 'hybrid bonding,' while SK Hynix will introduce 'high-bandwidth memory (HBM) stacking technology' and '3D DRAM development directions.'

A Semicon Korea official said, "While AI growth is becoming a core growth driver for the semiconductor industry, it also requires more technological demands and global cooperation. As the global semiconductor supply chain gathers in one place, we hope this will be an opportunity to gain insights for new business collaborations and strengthening competitiveness."