Gwangju Donggu Becomes First Local Government to Win 'AI Leader Award'

Gwangju Donggu won the 'Service AI Leader Award,' the first for a local government, at the AI Applied Service Excellence Case Contest hosted by the Korea Standards Association. Provided by Gwangju Donggu

On July 8, Gwangju Donggu announced that it had won the 'Service AI Leader Award' at the AI Applied Service Excellence Case Contest hosted by the Korea Standards Association.

Held under the slogan 'GREAT SERVICE for you, WITH AI,' this contest was organized to discover and promote outstanding cases of AI application in the service industry in response to the era's challenges of digital transformation (DX) and AI, from both consumer and provider perspectives. Six companies were selected, and among them, Gwangju Donggu was the only local government recognized.

Donggu was recognized for its achievements in developing the nation's first patented AI-based volume-rate waste bag disposal bin and a real-time garbage truck arrival information service. By encouraging citizen participation in resource circulation and providing convenience through the 'Donggurami ON' app, Donggu presented a new direction for solving neighborhood waste issues.

The AI volume-rate disposal bin, patented by Donggu, uses machine learning to analyze waste bag images (big data analysis), allowing AI to identify only designated volume-rate bags and automatically open or close the bin. The bin is also equipped with CCTV to prevent indiscriminate illegal dumping in surrounding areas, security lighting to brighten dark alleys, and solar panels to minimize external power use. Currently, Donggu is partnering with private companies to develop new products focused on reducing weight and production costs, innovating design, and achieving commercialization.

The 'garbage truck arrival information service,' developed through big data analysis, has contributed to stabilizing the waste disposal system in front of residents' homes. Like the nationwide Bus Information System (BIS), it is expected to become an essential platform in daily life as it expands across the country.

Im Taek, the head of Donggu District, stated, "As the first local government to win this award, to develop such solutions, and to file for patents, Donggu is always striving to keep pace with the changes and trends of the times. In fact, many companies and organizations are showing interest," adding, "We will continue to consider and implement policies that can make residents' lives more convenient."