- South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT selected 7 universities including Korea University and Yonsei University as the first batch in its AI-centered university initiative, aiming for a total of 10.
- Each university will receive up to 24 billion won over 8 years to build AI-focused systems, including dedicated AI departments and curricula for all students.
- The program focuses on producing both AI specialists and 'AX convergence' talent, with strong industry collaboration, entrepreneurship support, and nationwide AI education expansion.
South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT on Tuesday announced the selection of seven universities under its AI-centered university project, a key government initiative to expand AI education across higher education institutions.
The selected universities Gachon University, Korea University, Sogang University, Soonchunhyang University, Soongsil University, Sungkyunkwan University, and Yonsei University were chosen from among existing software-centered universities. They form the first batch of institutions to be designated under the program, which will eventually include a total of 10 universities. The remaining three universities, to be selected from institutions outside the software-centered category, will be announced in June.
Under the program, each university will receive up to 24 billion won ($16.2 million) in funding over an eight-year period. The AI funding program is part of the government’s broader response to rising demand for AI talent, particularly as companies increase investments in generative AI and related technologies.
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The initiative aims to develop both AI specialists and AX convergence talent, defined as professionals who can apply AI capabilities within their respective fields. As part of the requirements, the selected universities must establish dedicated AI organizations under direct oversight of their presidents and introduce an AI Convergence Bridge curriculum, along with foundational AI and application courses for all students.
Participating institutions will also be required to collaborate with industry on joint projects, promote student innovation programs, support AI entrepreneurship, and expand AI education outreach to local communities.
The ministry said the program is designed to strengthen university-wide AI education systems, ensuring that students beyond technical majors can acquire practical AI skills. Outcomes from the initiative will be shared through the national AI and software-centered university council as part of ongoing AI education reform efforts.
