Exchange Reviewing Acquisition of Startups to Strengthen AI Capabilities

The Korea Exchange announced on January 14 that it is pursuing an artificial intelligence (AI) innovation strategy as a preliminary step toward 24-hour trading, and is reviewing various options, including the acquisition of AI startups.

Korea Exchange, Yeouido, Seoul. Photo by Kang Jinhyung

The exchange stated, "Recognizing that AI technology is a key strategy that determines the competitiveness of the entire Korean capital market, we are preparing for AI-driven innovation to integrate AI technology into market management work." "To respond to market changes such as the future 24-hour trading system, we aim to enhance the efficiency and productivity of market management-such as corporate disclosures and market surveillance-through AI-based automation of market operations."

The exchange further explained, "To diversify revenue streams, we also plan to utilize AI technology in the information business sector, including the development of commercial indices and unstructured data products." It added, "As one of the options for this, we are considering various measures, including the acquisition of AI startups." However, the exchange clarified that this is just one of the options being discussed and nothing has been finalized yet.