Prime Minister Kim Says He Is Considering Linking AI-Generated Wealth to Basic Income

[Financial News] On the 24th, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok said that, regarding the South Korean government's artificial intelligence policy goals, "If we set bold goals in Physical AI capabilities, I would like to aim for the top tier, even No. 1."
He made the remarks after taking a question from the moderator during a special address session at the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF), also known as the Summer Davos Forum, held that afternoon at the Dalian International Convention Center in China.
He expressed confidence that "Korea's traditional manufacturing capabilities will allow it to excel in the Physical AI field."
He also said that, given domestic and external conditions, South Korea is being called on to carry out a major AI and Energy Transformation, and stressed that in the broader AI sector, the country is targeting the global top three.
When asked about his vision for addressing social gaps that may emerge as the world moves toward an AI society, Kim said, "Recently, Korean semiconductor companies have posted huge profits compared with the past, and a new question has emerged: 'How should this be distributed?'" He added, "There is no clear answer yet, and we are thinking about it."
He continued, "In connection with the AI transformation, we could combine the enormous wealth that will be created with ideas such as basic income," adding, "That is one idea we are considering."
He also added, "I believe it is one of our policy responsibilities to conduct experiments linking the results of Korea's AI transition with basic income and share the advantages, disadvantages, and other aspects with the international community."
Meanwhile, in his speech that day, Kim explained, "AI is not completed by algorithms alone. It must be supported by infrastructure such as semiconductors, data centers (DC), communication networks, and electrical grids, as well as AI applications and security systems," adding, "Korea has a special strength in that regard."
He went on to say, "We have AI full-stack capabilities, including a world-class semiconductor industry, advanced manufacturing capabilities, a stable high-quality power grid and ICT infrastructure, and a dynamic industrial ecosystem," expressing confidence.   
gowell@fnnews.com Kim Hyeong-gu Reporter