
Acting President Choi Sang-mok said Wednesday that DeepSeek has emerged as a "fresh shock," forecasting that the latest artificial intelligence model from the Chinese startup could reshape the industrial landscape.
"A Chinese company recently unveiled its AI model, DeepSeek R1, to deliver high performance at a low cost. This has come as a fresh shock," Choi said during a meeting with ministers.
He noted that the latest AI model would not only intensify global AI competition but also extend its impact to other software sectors, further complicating competition for the country's core technologies.
In response, Choi emphasized the need for swift government countermeasures after a careful review of the current state of key industries, such as semiconductors, batteries, automobiles, shipping and steel.
"The government will provide strong and rapid support," he said.
As part of its response, the government plans to launch a new 34 trillion-won ($23.4 billion) fund within the state-run Korea Development Bank to support cutting-edge technologies, including AI and semiconductor advancements. (Yonhap)