Lawmakers from South Korea’s ruling Democratic Party and the main opposition People Power Party have jointly introduced a bill to boost the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in defense research and development. This move comes as AI technologies are increasingly crucial in shaping future defense capabilities, according to Yonhap News Agency. The bill, the first of its kind in the country, aims to establish a framework for managing defense AI at the national level, ensuring its stable use from development to deployment and beyond.
Representative Yu Yong-weon emphasized that the bill is essential for integrating defense AI as a vital component of national security. It is designed to facilitate the stable and sustainable utilization of AI in defense operations. The legislation focuses on providing a foundational framework rather than strict regulation, emphasizing principles and accountability to support the stable application of AI in military settings.
The proposed bill addresses concerns regarding the responsible use and sustainable advancement of defense AI, particularly as the current AI framework does not encompass the defense sector. It also includes provisions for the formation of a committee to deliberate on key defense AI policies and the establishment of a policy center and research institute. Additionally, the government would be mandated to develop and execute a military AI basic plan every three years under this bill.
