OpenAI is opening its first office in South Korea, signaling the company’s growing focus on one of the world’s most tech-savvy markets. The Seoul office will serve as a hub for local partnerships and expansion efforts, OpenAI announced recently.

South Korea now ranks as the second-largest market for paid ChatGPT subscriptions globally, trailing only the United States, according to OpenAI data cited in a Reuters report. The company has already begun hiring local staff and says more details will be shared soon.

“Korea is one of the best places for AI because it has strong technology at all levels, from computer chips to software, and people of all ages are interested in it,” said Jason Kwon, OpenAI’s Chief Strategy Officer.

Experts say OpenAI’s expansion into South Korea could help deepen its ties with local tech firms, navigate emerging AI regulations and strengthen its foothold in Asia’s competitive AI landscape. The company has not yet disclosed the opening date for the Seoul office.