The Alan Turing Institute and the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) have today agreed strengthen AI and data science research ties between the UK and the Republic of Korea.
The two organisations have signed a memorandum of understanding that will lead to joint research, knowledge exchange and the exchange of scientific talent, including closer working on defence and national security projects.
KAIST is South Korea’s foremost science and technology university and a significant contributor to the national science and innovation sectors.
The signing of the MOU coincides with the AI Seoul Summit 2024, co-hosted by the UK Government and the Republic of Korea on the 21-22 May.
Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, Michelle Donelan, said: “The AI Seoul Summit that we have co-hosted this week with the Republic of Korea is a further example of our drive to achieve international collaboration and consensus.We have secured global agreements with both governments and companies to further enhance safety measures around the development of AI.
“Today’s announcement of an agreement between The Alan Turing Institute and the KAIST is further proof of the UK’s commitment to that collaborative approach with partners around the globe, fostering innovation to ensure we can fully realise the enormous potential new technology has to offer.”
Professor Tim Watson, Director for Science and Innovation (Defence & National Security) at the Alan Turing Institute, said: “Artificial intelligence and data science present both global challenges and global opportunities so I’m delighted to strengthen collaboration with our colleagues one of South Korea’s most prestigious scientific institutions, which will help both of our nations to use these powerful technologies to tackle some of the biggest issues facing society.”
Head of KAIST Kim Jaechul Graduate School of Artificial Intelligence, Professor Song Chong, said:
"We look forward to advance research endeavours to promote responsible development and use of AI and to ensure the equitable benefits of AI for all through cooperation between the two organisations."
Following the signing of the partnership, KAIST and the Turing will now work to develop a shared programme of research and events, alongside creating opportunities for shared learning through internships, placements and secondments.
Photo by Mathew Schwartz on Unsplash
