OpenAI Chief Global Affairs Officer: "Balance and Boundaries Between AI and Human Work Are Crucial"

Seoul National University Hosts a Discussion with OpenAI's Chris Rehbein

Chris Rehbein, Chief Global Affairs Officer (CGAO) at OpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT, emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between artificial intelligence (AI) and the work and roles of humans.

Chris Rehbein, Chief Global Affairs Officer (CGAO) of OpenAI (third from the left in the front row), is taking a commemorative photo with attendees at the "AI and the Future of Humanity" meeting held on the 24th at the Seoul National University Central Library. Photo by Seoul National University

During a meeting held at Seoul National University on the 24th, Rehbein responded to a student's concern that "the advancement of AI could make people neglect thinking and learning," by saying, "We should reduce the tasks that no longer require our continued involvement and focus on work where humans can fully demonstrate their abilities."

He added, "With the advent of the printing press, people memorized less, but it had a positive impact on knowledge and learning. AI also requires balance. It will become increasingly important to clearly distinguish the boundaries of what humans do."

Rehbein also analyzed that Korea not only physically utilizes AI, but also understands it in connection with productivity on a mental level.

He continued, "Korea, which has rapidly developed over the past 75 years, is well positioned to establish itself in the 'age of intelligence' following the electronic and digital eras. Countries that have understood and leveraged the strategic differentiation of new technologies have benefited economically and in terms of security."

OpenAI established its Korean subsidiary on September 11 and signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Seoul National University. The agreement aims to share the importance of generative AI tools in education and research, and to cooperate on building and implementing an AI-native campus.

Yoo Honglim, President of Seoul National University, met with James Hairston, Head of International Cooperation and Partnerships at OpenAI, Jennifer Santos, Chief Business Partner, and others prior to the meeting to discuss overall cooperation strategies.