Korea Times Forum navigates uncharted future of AI

A participant takes a photo during the second session of the Korea Times Forum at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) building in central Seoul, Wednesday. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul

Hundreds of participants, including ministers, ambassadors, and business insiders, at the Korea Times Forum, converged on a shared understanding: the digital revolution, ignited by artificial intelligence (AI), possesses the power to transform the landscape of possibilities, resetting our benchmarks for what can be achieved.

Yet, they also recognized a critical need to collaboratively navigate the complexities of AI, akin to this very forum, ensuring that its vast potential could be channeled in ways that prioritize ethics and the broader good of humanity.

"As smartphones turned our lives upside down, AI will bring those changes in deeper, further ways," Seung Myung-ho, chairman of The Korea Times and its sister paper Hankook Ilbo, said in an opening speech. "AI technology will continue to evolve, and there's a possibility that it might surpass human intelligence. This would impact not only the labor market but also our way of life and environment significantly. We should respond to these changes and seek ways to co-exist with AI."

He added, "An open attitude and balanced sights would be essential to survive and grow in this world where AI will be commonplace."

The Korea Times Chairman Seung Myung-ho delievers an opening speech at the Korea Times Forum held at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) building in central Seoul, Wednesday. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul

Some forum participants contacted by The Korea Times commented that they are seeking new opportunities in the upcoming AI era.

Sierra Leone Ambassador to Korea Kathos Jibao Mattai believed that AI could greatly enhance the bureaucratic system in his embassy, and further, in his country.

"It is about the efficiency of how things can be done from one department to another. We are facing such challenges in the embassy. While we trust the documentation done by officials in the ministry and the embassy, the process can sometimes be slow as it's passed by humans. It's not the 'ppalli-ppalli' (hurry-hurry) culture like in Korea. If you have AI, digitization can make everything faster," Mattai told The Korea Times.

"That's why I attended this forum, to figure out the advantages," Mattai added, noting that he found the forum very enlightening.

Sierra Leone Ambassador to Korea Kathos Jibao Mattai attends the Korea Times Forum held at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) building in central Seoul, Wednesday. / Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk

Hana Bank Deputy President Oh Jung-tack, who also leads the bank's environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) group, also said that the bank is mulling the role of finance in the face of AI.

"The changes and reforms in the financial sector are imminent due to the advancement of AI," Oh said. "In response to the transition to a new paradigm, Hana Bank has proactively developed an AI-based financial innovation model. We are also reflecting on how finance can contribute to the well-being and happiness of all in a society with advanced AI technology."

Other participants felt the forum provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on AI's impact as it increasingly integrates into our everyday lives.

"When working on assignments, giving presentations, or prepping for exams, many students rely on generative AI such as ChatGPT and Naver's Clova X. It's because they effectively assist with the task by summarizing professional articles or resources. They often seem indispensable in many situations," said Kim Da-som, a student majoring in communication at Dongduk Women's University and a brand ambassador for The Korea Times.

"That's why the discussions emphasizing the significant need for future ethical considerations left a lasting impression on me," Kim added.

Latvian Deputy Ambassador to Korea Ieva Majore attends The Korea Times Forum at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) building in central Seoul, Wednesday. Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk

Latvian Deputy Ambassador to Korea Ieva Majore echoed these sentiments.

"I keep thinking about what humans will do if AI starts to work and involve in our lives. What will be the function of human beings? The discussion about AI is starting in Latvia, of course. It's nice, but on one side it's a little bit dangerous. I think we should think about the borders of AI. The main problem at this moment is how we should control this AI. Sooner or later, it can change our lifestyle," Majore said.

"It's not just an issue for Korea, but also for the other parts of the world."