Korea expands autonomous driving AI tests

The government said Monday it will significantly expand pilot projects for locally developed autonomous driving artificial intelligence (AI) and strengthen support for deep-tech startups as it seeks to accelerate the commercialization of emerging technologies. According to the Ministry of Science and ICT, the government approved measures to accelerate the commercialization of autonomous driving AI and support deep-tech startups during a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Science and ICT Minister Bae Kyung-hoon. Under the autonomous driving road map, the government will expand pilot projects that began in Gwangju to more regions and larger-scale operations. The move aims to collect large volumes of driving data to improve the performance and versatility of locally developed autonomous driving AI amid intensifying competition from the United States and China. The government also plans to establish a cooperation model involving transport companies and unions, autonomous driving firms and platform operators to address potential conflicts as the technology is commercialized. It wil