SK Group & AWS Unveil Major AI Center, Paving Way for Biotech Innovation in Korea
SK Group has announced a landmark investment of ₩82 trillion ($61 billion) focused on artificial intelligence and semiconductor infrastructure, beginning with the establishment of a hyperscale AI data center in Ulsan in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS). Scheduled to be operational by 2027, this initiative aims to position Ulsan as a leading hub for AI innovation in South Korea.
Powering South Korea’s AI Ambitions
By 2030, SK Group plans to create up to 78,000 new jobs through this expansive investment. This development marks what SK calls its fourth major transformation, building on previous expansions within telecommunications, semiconductors, and energy. The project is a collaborative effort involving various SK affiliates such as SK Telecom and SK hynix, reflecting a unified strategy to strengthen South Korea’s AI ecosystem on a global scale.
AI Beyond IT: Focus on Biotechnology
While the new data center serves broad AI infrastructure needs, SK Group is particularly prioritizing AI applications within biotechnology. Chairman Chey Tae-won has highlighted AI-driven biotechnology as a core focus alongside robotics, manufacturing, and energy-related AI solutions. This signals a strategic shift designed to leverage AI capabilities for innovations in health and life sciences, aligning with global trends toward integrating AI into biotechnological research and development.
Outlook on Future Impact
The Ulsan AI data center represents a foundational element in South Korea’s national AI strategy. It is expected to accelerate advancements in AI-driven biotechnology and healthcare technologies, supporting the country’s ambitions to become a leader in artificial intelligence. By facilitating cutting-edge AI research and applications, this infrastructure is poised to drive significant progress in the intersection of AI and life sciences.