A Proactive Step to Address AI as a Game Changer in the International Arena

1. On February 25, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) officially launched its new AI Diplomacy Division in a strategic initiative designed to tackle the growing challenges and opportunities posed by artificial intelligence (AI) in the global arena. The Division will play a pivotal role in proactively addressing AI-related issues, which are rapidly becoming central to international affairs, particularly in the realms of economic growth and national security.

2. AI has emerged as a transformative force in the international landscape, and MOFA has recognized its potential as a “game changer” that could reshape global relations. The launch of the AI Diplomacy Division follows a series of high-profile international engagements by MOFA in the AI space: Last year, MOFA hosted several key global fora on AI, including the Summit for Democracy in March and the AI Seoul Summit in May. These conferences emphasized Korea's proactive role in shaping the discourse on AI governance, safety considerations and international collaboration.

3. The AI Diplomacy Division, established as a temporary unit within MOFA, will be instrumental in formulating and advancing Korea’s AI diplomatic strategy. Its key objectives include fostering bilateral AI partnerships with major global partners such as the United States, actively participating in multilateral AI dialogues within international organizations such as the United Nations (UN), G20/G7, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), and facilitating cross-sector collaboration with relevant government agencies to ensure Korea remains at the forefront of global discussions on AI policy.

4. The establishment of the Division underscores Korea’s ambition to lead the way in AI diplomacy, positioning the nation as a proactive player in shaping the future of AI governance on the international stage.