[Editorial] For 80% of Companies, AI Remains Out of Reach—Tailored Support Is Urgently Needed

Governments and tech companies worldwide are fiercely competing to develop artificial intelligence (AI), with the belief that the future of their nations depends on AI leadership. However, for domestic manufacturers, AI remains out of reach. Most lack the necessary funds and personnel to implement AI solutions. There is an urgent need for customized support measures to help our companies accelerate their slow and hesitant transition to AI.
According to a survey conducted by the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) targeting over 500 manufacturing companies nationwide, the reality is more severe than expected. Eight out of ten companies reported that they are unable to utilize AI in any business activities, such as production, logistics, or operations. In particular, only 4% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are using AI. This means that 96 out of 100 SMEs are living in a world disconnected from the much-hyped future of AI. While the situation for large enterprises is somewhat better, only 49% are effectively utilizing AI. In essence, most SMEs remain barren ground for the AI revolution, and even half of large enterprises have yet to benefit from the AI era.
The main reasons for the lack of AI adoption are insufficient funding, a shortage of skilled personnel, and a lack of confidence—companies are facing a triple burden. Among SMEs, 80% cited investment costs as the primary barrier to taking the first step toward AI. Even among large enterprises, the figure was as high as 57%.
Initial entry costs for AI are inevitably high. For example, converting production processes to AI requires multiple steps and can demand more capital than anticipated. This underscores the need for sophisticated, company-specific policies.
The shortage of professionals is also a serious issue. According to KCCI’s report on the global status of AI talent, China has approximately 410,000 experts, India 190,000, and the United States 120,000. In contrast, Korea has only 20,000. There are fewer students pursuing science and engineering, and many outstanding graduates go abroad. The Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (Stanford HAI) has already classified Korea as a net exporter of AI talent.
Only now has the government introduced measures to foster domestic research and development (R&D) talent, including the National Scientist Program. These efforts are long overdue. Eighty percent of manufacturing sites report an immediate shortage of skilled personnel. Even when companies try to recruit talent, they cannot find suitable candidates. The government must find ways to open new pathways. The only way to cultivate and attract talent from abroad is through bold incentives. The government must swiftly implement its announced talent development plans.
Companies also expressed skepticism about the outcomes of AI adoption. Sixty percent said that the tangible benefits of transitioning to AI would be minimal. This perception likely stems from concerns about costs and workforce shortages.
It is the government’s responsibility to create a manufacturing environment where the benefits of AI are tangible. The future success or failure of companies will depend on their ability to leverage AI. If opportunities and timing are missed, SMEs in particular will rapidly fall behind in the competition.