South Korea's Economic Census to include AI, smart factory data for first time

South Korea is set to conduct its comprehensive Economic Census from July 1 to July 22, gathering crucial data on employment, production, and business management across the nation. This five-year survey serves as a foundational resource for government economic policy development.

This year's census introduces new categories for the first time, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI), smart factory operations, and the prevalence of unmanned stores. These additions aim to accurately capture the rapid transformations occurring within the industrial landscape and inform policy-making.

The census will offer both online and on-site survey options. Online submissions will be accepted from July 1 to July 30 via the official Economic Census website. Approximately 3.34 million of the total 7.53 million businesses nationwide will receive on-site visits from around 12,000 survey personnel between July 12 and July 22.

To improve the accuracy and efficiency of the survey, the National Data Agency will integrate AI technology into various aspects, including industrial classification review and call center operations. Efforts have also been made to reduce the burden on respondents by expanding the use of administrative data to substitute for survey items. The agency anticipates that the census results will provide a precise understanding of evolving industrial sites, enabling the government to offer tailored policy support.

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Through the Economic Census results, we will accurately grasp rapidly changing industrial sites, such as the spread of artificial intelligence and the growth of the platform economy, and accordingly, the government will provide customized policy support.