Future intelligence took center stage in Seoul as South Korean President Lee Jae Myung met SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son to discuss the next phase of artificial intelligence development. The meeting highlighted South Korea’s ambition to build AI infrastructure on the same level as transportation and basic utilities.
During the discussion, both leaders emphasized how future intelligence will transform national competitiveness and global leadership. President Lee noted that his administration aims to make AI available to every citizen in a fair and accessible way. He added that Korea must ensure responsible governance, even while accelerating adoption.
Masayoshi Son shared his view that AI innovation has already exceeded conventional expectations. He pointed to rapid progress in large-scale models and advanced reasoning capabilities. He argued that future intelligence will exceed human abilities across nearly every discipline. Moreover, he said that AI could surpass traditional intellectual standards and may eventually qualify for global awards.
Son encouraged Korea to expand investment in energy, data infrastructure, semiconductor capability, and AI education. He acknowledged Korea’s strength in memory chips and suggested the country could strengthen cooperation with the United States and Japan. He also supported deeper ties between the two Asian neighbors to advance shared innovation goals.
President Lee and Son discussed the need for long-term policies to support training, research, and technology transfer. Additionally, a memorandum of understanding between government officials and Arm signaled the beginning of new industrial partnerships. The plan includes establishing a semiconductor training campus designed to support more than one thousand specialists.
The meeting also included representatives from major ministries and SoftBank executives. They agreed that AI access should become a fundamental right similar to education or communication. Moreover, Son encouraged leaders to focus on preparing society for coexistence with powerful systems rather than attempting strict control.
Experts believe the conversation marks a significant step in Korea’s technology strategy. As momentum grows, future intelligence will shape economic planning, workforce development, and national priorities. Policymakers expect further cooperation with global companies already investing in next-generation AI capabilities.
Future intelligence remains the focus of Korea’s long-term innovation roadmap as the country positions itself among leading AI-driven economies.
