Seoul promotes free generative AI access for youth via 'Youth AI Ladder' initiative

The Seoul Metropolitan Government is preparing to launch an initiative that will provide young residents with free access to generative artificial intelligence tools, such as ChatGPT. The program, dubbed 'Youth AI Ladder,' aims to ensure that all young people in Seoul can learn and utilize AI technologies.

Under this plan, the city intends to secure services from leading global AI companies at a significantly reduced cost. While specific details regarding the start date and eligibility criteria are still being finalized, the program is expected to prioritize young adults aged 19-39 who are preparing to enter the workforce. The city plans to gradually expand the program's reach.

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We are negotiating with the world's top two companies in terms of market share (price and service conditions based on user scale), and significant progress has been made.

Mayor Oh Se-hoon announced that negotiations are underway with the world's top two AI companies regarding pricing and service conditions based on user volume, with substantial progress reported. In addition to AI access, Seoul plans to create 'Seoul AI Lounges' equipped with high-specification PCs in areas frequented by young people, starting with the Seoul Library in the latter half of this year and expanding to five locations by 2030.

Addressing potential overlaps with government AI initiatives, Mayor Oh stated that Seoul would coordinate its policies with national plans if the government's AI accessibility project materializes. However, he also expressed some skepticism about the government's ability to quickly provide high-quality AI services developed with domestic technology to meet public demand.

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If the government realizes the policy (of ensuring AI access), we will adjust and align with it. However, it remains doubtful whether the government can quickly provide high-quality services that consumers want (with domestic technology).