Gumi selected for Ministry of Trade's AI transformation industrial complex project

Gumi has been selected as the final site for the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy's AI transformation (AX) demonstration industrial complex project.

The project aims to build customized demonstration models by industry sector and AX stage, centered on the semiconductor materials and components industry. A total of 24.5 billion won ($16.3 million) will be invested from this year through 2029. The initiative centers on establishing an AX comprehensive support center and a manufacturing AI open lab to help local manufacturers transition to AI-based operations.

People Power Party lawmaker Koo Ja-keun's sustained coordination with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy is credited as a contributing factor in the selection. Koo met with Minister Kim Jung-kwan on May 19 to explain key issues facing Gumi and make the case for designating the city as the project site.

Gumi has built a foundation for manufacturing innovation through initiatives including a smart green industrial complex, a digital transformation infrastructure project and an AX industrial environment development project. The city has long been regarded as an ideal hub for AI transformation, backed by diverse manufacturing value chains spanning semiconductors, electronics and machinery, a semiconductor materials and components ecosystem and AI infrastructure.

"It is deeply meaningful that Gumi has been recognized as a key hub to lead AI innovation in South Korea's manufacturing sector," Koo said. "We will work actively with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy to ensure the manufacturing AX transition proceeds without a hitch."

He added that the selection marks "an important turning point that will raise the competitiveness of Gumi's manufacturing industry and accelerate AI-driven manufacturing innovation for local companies," pledging to "work closely with the government to ensure the project moves forward smoothly and do our utmost to secure the necessary support."