The South Korean government has unveiled a new cooperation framework bringing together leading science and technology institutes and major corporations to accelerate artificial intelligence adoption across regional industries.

The initiative, formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed at KAIST, aims to connect academic research capabilities with industry needs, enabling joint research, talent development, and commercialization of AI solutions.

The partnership involves four key institutes — KAIST, GIST, DGIST, and UNIST — alongside 16 corporations spanning sectors such as defense, biotechnology, semiconductors, batteries, and shipbuilding. Each institute will establish specialized joint research centers aligned with regional industry strengths, including defense and biotechnology at KAIST, energy and batteries at GIST, robotics and semiconductors at DGIST, and shipbuilding and materials at UNIST.

The government said the goal is to accelerate the development and deployment of AI technologies that can be applied directly in industrial settings.

In a parallel move, Kakao announced it will support the effort through a separate initiative called “Kakao AI Sail,” backed by a 50 billion won fund over five years. The program will focus on nurturing AI talent, supporting startups and upskilling employees in regional industries.

Deputy Prime Minister Bae Kyung-hoon said the initiative is intended to strengthen collaboration between public research institutions and private enterprises.