Emphasizing Mutual Growth Through Role Separation Between Gwangju and South Jeolla Province
Synergy Through Linking the Convergence Complex and Data Centers
Presenting Strategies for AI Talent Development and Industrial Clusters
Amid concerns about regional competition surrounding the artificial intelligence (AI) industry in Gwangju and South Jeolla Province, Lee Byunghun, Senior Vice Chairman of the Honam Development Special Committee, emphasized, "We must maximize the synergy effect by attracting the National AI Computing Center to Gwangju."
Recently, as SK Hynix decided to establish and operate a data center in Haenam, South Jeolla Province together with OpenAI, civic groups and citizens have expressed concerns that Gwangju's AI policy may be marginalized and investments could be dispersed to South Jeolla Province.
In response, Senior Vice Chairman Lee stated on October 12, 2025, "Gwangju and South Jeolla Province are not competitors; rather, they must clearly distinguish their roles and functions and cooperate with each other."
He explained that Gwangju City is leading the promotion and ecosystem development of the domestic AI industry and convergence through its AI-centered industrial convergence complex, providing computing resources to over 700 domestic AI companies (including about 200 in the Gwangju area).
He further stated, "The National AI Computing Center must be established in Gwangju to achieve efficiency and effectiveness through the integration and concentration of resources," adding, "If we link the state-led Gwangju AI convergence complex with the privately-led OpenAI business in South Jeolla Province, a synergy effect is possible."
Senior Vice Chairman Lee also presented strategies for the mutual growth of the AI industry in Gwangju and South Jeolla Province, including: ▲ establishing a cooperative system for AI talent development ▲ creating an AI industrial convergence cluster ▲ joint research and development ▲ jointly improving residential conditions ▲ strengthening policy governance.
He added, "After attracting the National AI Computing Center to Gwangju, we must establish a system so that the data centers in Gwangju and South Jeolla Province play complementary roles," and continued, "We will support each hub to faithfully fulfill its original role by establishing a consultative structure involving the central government, political parties, local governments, companies, and universities."
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