Synopsis
NAVER Connect Foundation and Seoul National University have partnered to develop an AI curriculum designed to enhance AI literacy and digital competencies. The initiative will create structured educational content, nurture future technology talent, and support broader adoption of AI-focused learning in education.
NAVER Connect Foundation and Seoul National University (SNU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen artificial intelligence (AI) education, foster the next generation of AI talent, and expand access to high-quality technology training across South Korea.
The partnership brings together NAVER Connect Foundation’s expertise in AI education, software development training, and digital learning programs with Seoul National University’s extensive network for regional talent development. The collaboration aims to create a stronger and more inclusive AI education ecosystem, ensuring that students from different regions have access to opportunities that prepare them for careers in the rapidly evolving technology sector.
Under the agreement, the two organizations will jointly develop and operate educational programs designed to meet the growing demands of the AI era. The initiative will focus on providing students with practical skills, industry-relevant knowledge, and hands-on learning experiences that align with the needs of employers and emerging technology industries. The partnership will also support collaborative research projects and academic activities aimed at identifying innovative educational models for future generations.
A major component of the collaboration is the launch of the AI Agent Challenge, a nationwide program that will involve 200 students from 10 national flagship universities. The program, operated in partnership with Seoul National University’s regional talent development initiative, is designed to provide students with direct experience in designing and building AI agents capable of solving real-world challenges.
Unlike traditional classroom-based instruction, the program emphasizes experiential learning and project-based education. Participants will have the opportunity to apply AI concepts to practical situations, helping them develop technical expertise while gaining a deeper understanding of how artificial intelligence can be used to address real-life problems in various industries.
Also Read: Naver Unveils AI Integration Plans for Search, Shopping, and Maps
To strengthen the industry relevance of the initiative, developers and planners from Team NAVER will participate as mentors throughout the program. These professionals will conduct group mentoring sessions, provide project feedback, and deliver special lectures focused on current industry trends and workplace expectations. Their involvement is expected to help students bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice while gaining valuable exposure to careers in the AI sector.
The new agreement builds on an already established relationship between the two institutions. Previously, NAVER Connect Foundation and the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Seoul National University jointly developed the course 'Frontend Development Using AI'. Based on the foundation’s AI developer education curriculum, the course was adapted for university students and has been offered since 2025.
In addition to its collaboration with Seoul National University, the foundation has expanded its efforts to strengthen regional AI capabilities through partnerships with other institutions. One example is its 'AI Utilization and Regional Problem Solving' program with Pusan National University, which focuses on applying AI technologies to address local challenges and support regional innovation.
Commenting on the partnership, Seoul National University President Ryu Hong-lim said collaboration between academia and industry is essential for developing talent capable of meeting the demands of the digital economy. He emphasized that fostering regional talent and supporting balanced development remain important priorities for the university.
NAVER Connect Foundation Chairman Gong Gi-jung also highlighted the importance of creating broader access to AI learning opportunities. He said the organization will continue working with educational institutions to connect industry expertise with academic training and help talented students across South Korea develop into future leaders of the artificial intelligence industry.
The partnership reflects South Korea’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its position as a global leader in AI innovation, digital transformation, and technology education, while ensuring that students across the country have access to the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in an increasingly AI-driven world.
