South Korea and France have committed to expanding cooperation in strategic science fields, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), solidifying their roles as crucial partners in cutting-edge technology research. Science Minister Bae Kyung-hoon and French counterpart Philippe Baptiste discussed this during a joint committee meeting on science and technology in Seoul amidst French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit. Macron’s trip coincides with the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Both nations reiterated their status as “key partners” in advanced strategic technologies like AI and quantum computing during the committee meeting. Leading South Korean institutions such as the Institute for Basic Science and the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) inked a memorandum of understanding with the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) to enhance bilateral exchanges.
Additionally, South Korea and France collaborated on strategies to boost the AI industry. The South Korean AI Safety Institute proposed establishing a communication channel with France’s National Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology. Minister Bae Kyung-hoon emphasized that the recent joint committee meeting, held on the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties and during Macron’s visit, has further advanced bilateral science and technology cooperation. He stated that South Korea aims to lead in global competition by closely partnering with France in strategic science and technology, focusing on AI and quantum computing.
