According to Yonhap News,

The development of on-device AI semiconductor technology, which is essential for advanced products such as autonomous vehicles, collaborative robots, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), is gaining momentum.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE) announced that the preliminary feasibility study exemption for the "K-On-device AI Semiconductor Technology Development Project" was officially approved at the National Research and Development Project uation Committee meeting held on August 22.

The project focuses on developing customized AI semiconductors, AI software (SW), and modules required for the production of advanced products in four major industries: automotive, Internet of Things (IoT) and home appliances, machinery and robotics, and defense.

On August 18th, during a Cabinet meeting, the necessity and urgency of the project were recognized, and it was decided to proceed as a national policy initiative led by MOTIE.

MOTIE plans to connect anchor companies such as domestic fabless (semiconductor design companies), foundries (semiconductor contract manufacturers), and demand companies from the four major industries, ensuring that the outcomes of this project extend beyond just semiconductor development to mass production of advanced products.

This initiative aims to drive AI transformation in domestic key industries, strengthen the on-device AI semiconductor supply chain, and enhance the capabilities of semiconductor fabless and foundry companies.

Minister Kim Jung-Kwan of Trade, Industry and Energy emphasized, "To lead the global emerging market, it is crucial to rapidly develop, demonstrate, and mass-produce on-device AI semiconductors, which will be at the core of the physical AI era. In a situation where our companies' dependence on foreign semiconductors is deepening, we will support the prompt release of advanced products equipped with domestically produced AI semiconductors."


dkkim@yna.co.kr
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Source: Yonhap News (August 22, 2025)

** This article was translated from Korean.