Google to build first global AI campus in South Korea

Google will build its first dedicated global artificial intelligence (AI) campus in Seoul under a new partnership with South Korea aimed at strengthening cooperation with local engineers, startups and major technology firms.

The agreement was announced Monday after South Korean President Lee Jae Myung met with Demis Hassabis in Seoul.

During the meeting, South Korea’s Science Ministry and Google DeepMind signed a memorandum of understanding formalising plans for the new AI hub.

Presidential policy adviser Kim Yong-beom said Seoul requested that Google dispatch at least 10 engineers from its US headquarters to help launch the campus, adding that Hassabis had agreed to review the proposal.

Officials said the center will serve as a collaborative space for AI training, internships, startup incubation and joint research, making it the first campus of its kind established by Google anywhere in the world.

Hassabis said Google hopes the initiative will help train the next generation of Korean AI talent while deepening partnerships with domestic industrial leaders including Samsung, SK Hynix, Hyundai and LG.

President Lee also raised concerns over job displacement caused by artificial intelligence and stressed the need to explore social protections such as a base wage.

Hassabis described South Korea as one of the world’s strongest industrial ecosystems for AI, citing its leadership in semiconductors, robotics and advanced manufacturing.