[Reporter’s Notebook] Seeing the Future of Industry in the "Locked-Down City" of Wuhan

Wuhan, Once a City of Fear, Transforms into a Robotaxi Tech Hub
China's Policy and Execution Power: A Model Korea Needs
Instead of Focusing on Flaws, Learn from What China Does Better
Establish a Strong Control Tower to Realize a 'Mega Sandbox'

"The most challenging experiment conducted in a city once closed off by fear."

As part of a mega-sandbox project focused on sweeping deregulation, I covered the commercialization process of robotaxis in Wuhan, China. Preparing for the trip, I was filled with concerns. Wuhan, known as the origin of COVID-19; news that foreign correspondents had been investigated under the "Anti-Espionage Law"; and even senior colleagues cautioning me to "be careful."

However, the Wuhan I encountered was different. Hundreds of autonomous taxis, their steering wheels turning as if driven by ghosts, roamed the city center, while citizens rode bicycles alongside them without fear. Residents who once laughed at these "turtle cars" now cheer for the city as it sheds its image as a "locked-down city" and transforms into a hub of advanced technology. Instead of a gray, lifeless place, Wuhan is now a city alive with data and experimentation.

Behind this transformation were clear government direction and corporate ambition. One entrepreneur I met in Wuhan said, "Without policy, corporate ambition remains stagnant." In other words, without institutional support, it is difficult for companies to lead innovation alone. This is a lesson our own government should heed. The company, which develops smart road systems, was founded less than ten years ago.

Yet, it is already participating in robotaxi commercialization projects in four countries, including China. The Chinese government has enacted laws to support high-tech industries, while local governments have built 5G base stations to attract companies. When a robotaxi accident occurs, the government and companies jointly analyze the cause and apply the lessons to the next experiment. Failure is not seen as a problem, but as an opportunity to learn. Thanks to this environment, the number of robotaxis in Wuhan grew from five in 2022 to 400 last year, effectively completing commercialization.

According to a recent survey by the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, only about 30% of Korean companies believe they are ahead in technology. Nearly half responded that there is "no difference," and more than 20% said China is better. This is a stark contrast to a decade ago, when Korea was confident in its overwhelming superiority.

Of course, China's approach is the result of strong control and efficiency. The systems may differ, but there are lessons to be learned: an institutional framework that allows fearless experimentation, consistent policies, government initiative, and a culture that turns failure into an asset. Korea also needs a stage for such experimentation. The pace of change is accelerating, yet we remain confined within familiar boundaries. If we fail to create spaces for free experimentation with new technologies and industries, the next generation may lose their opportunities. The government must draw the big picture and ease regulations. The choices we make now will determine the direction of future industries.