Korea Polytechnics and KAIST Join Forces for Physical AI Talent Development and Technology Exchange

Korea Polytechnics announced on the 20th that it signed a memorandum of understanding with Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) at COEX in Gangnam, Seoul, to foster specialists in the field of Physical AI and promote technological exchange. By combining Korea Polytechnics’ hands-on vocational training capabilities with KAIST’s strengths in research and development, the two institutions aim to enhance the nation’s AI competitiveness and talent pool.
Physical AI refers to physical devices that operate based on AI software, such as AI robots and AI sensors.
Under the agreement, the two organizations will collaborate on personnel exchanges and joint research, provide education to nurture outstanding talent in the Physical AI sector, establish a startup platform for manufacturing based on Physical AI utilizing human resources, facilities, and equipment, and support joint policy research in the field of manufacturing Physical AI.
Korea Polytechnics plans to further advance its practice-oriented education system in the fields of AI, robotics, and sensor convergence. The institution will also expand opportunities for students to participate in industry settings related to Physical AI.
As part of the agreement, the two institutions will jointly host the 'Talent Development Strategy' session, which is linked to the Physical AI International Forum 2025 held at COEX.
Professor Jang Young Jae of KAIST will deliver a presentation on 'Securing Convergent Talent in the Era of AI Transformation,' while Professor Lee Hye-jung of Korea Polytechnics will discuss 'X-AI and Strategies for Nurturing Technical Talent.' Following these presentations, an on-site discussion will be held on 'Challenges and Opportunities for Korea Polytechnics in the Physical AI Paradigm.'
Chul-soo Lee, President of Korea Polytechnics, stated, "This agreement marks KAIST joining hands with Korea Polytechnics to nurture practical Physical AI experts and promote the industry. By perfectly combining KAIST’s knowledge with Korea Polytechnics’ field technology, we will lead the Physical AI ecosystem."
Kwang Hyung Lee, President of KAIST, remarked, "AI is now moving beyond the virtual realm to merge with the physical world, transforming industrial paradigms. Through this collaboration, KAIST will bring cutting-edge, research-driven technology to real-world industry and, together with Korea Polytechnics, take the lead in cultivating convergent talent for the Physical AI era."
[email protected] Kim Jun-hyuk Reporter