South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT (MST) announced a consolidation and restructuring of its indigenous Artificial Intelligence (AI) foundation model project, known as 독자 인공지능 (Dokja Inongjineung), alongside next-generation AI initiatives. The restructuring will involve an investment of 800 billion won (approximately $600 million USD). This move aims to streamline efforts and enhance the nation’s competitiveness in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. The project, originally focused on developing independent AI foundation models, will now be integrated with other related programs. Seoul will be at the center of this integrated effort. The MST intends to create synergy between these projects to accelerate the development and application of AI technologies within South Korea. This investment demonstrates the government’s commitment to becoming a global leader in AI innovation.