SEOUL (April 4): The South Korean government will invest 710.2 billion won (US$526.9 million or RM2.5 billion) in projects aimed at integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into everyday life, the Yonhap news agency reported.

The AI Strategy High-Level Consultative Council, a government-civilian panel for shaping AI policies, convened its inaugural meeting and approved the investment plan to proceed with 69 AI projects aimed at helping the people feel the benefits of AI across all sectors, according to the Ministry of Science and ICT.

Some 75.5 billion won is earmarked for 18 programmes geared towards enhancing daily life, 288.1 billion won is designated for 24 workplace-related projects, and 115.7 billion won is allocated to 14 public administration initiatives. Additionally, 230.9 billion won is set aside for AI education and ethics programmes.

The ministry said the projects include the development of AI-powered software tailored for diagnosing and managing nine pediatric rare diseases, as well as aiding in the diagnosis of 12 serious medical conditions.

They also support the creation of AI-based digital medical devices for early prediction and management of those on the autism spectrum.

The ministry said it also had plans to leverage AI in public services, including the distribution of information and communication aid for individuals with disabilities, provision of healthcare services for vulnerable populations, such as elderly individuals living alone, and assistance for households in welfare blind spots.

The government also aims to deploy AI across diverse industries by developing specialised AI services tailored for sectors such as law, medicine, and psychological counselling.

In the public sector, AI technologies will bolster disaster response capabilities for scenarios like fires, floods and infectious disease outbreaks, the ministry added.