Gyeonggi agency launches AI competition to cultivate future tech talent

The Gyeonggi Center for Economic Promotion began accepting applications Monday for the "2026 SW Future Fulfillment × AI·SW-Centered University Joint Competition."

The project-based contest challenges students to identify real-life and community problems and develop solutions using AI and software technology.

Seven AI- and software-focused universities in Gyeonggi Province are taking part. The competition aims to build a high school–university model for nurturing AI and software talent and expand the region's digital talent ecosystem.

Participating universities include Gachon University, Kyung Hee University, Sungkyunkwan University, Shinhan University, Ajou University and Hanyang University, among seven institutions in total.

Each university will provide a professional educational environment and student mentoring, with participants carrying out their projects using the universities' academic infrastructure.

High school students in Gyeonggi Province are eligible to apply by forming teams of around three members.

Hyeon Chang-ha, director of the Future New Industries division, said he hoped the competition would "help students strengthen their AI and software capabilities and grow into the core talent that will lead future industries."