Why Is ChatGPT-Maker OpenAI Planning To Open Office In South Korea? Find Out
OpenAI hinted that more details on local partnerships and operational plans will be unveiled in the coming months.
OpenAI is making a strategic leap into Asia by opening its first office in Seoul, signalling the growing importance of South Korea in the artificial intelligence landscape. The move comes as the country emerges as one of the top global users of ChatGPT, trailing only the United States in terms of paying subscribers, the company revealed on Monday.
This expansion also marks the formal establishment of an OpenAI legal entity within South Korea, highlighting the company's long-term commitment to the region. While the AI firm did not disclose a timeline for the office launch, it confirmed that hiring is already underway to build local teams that will spearhead partnerships and future operations.
Local Partnerships and Political Engagements
OpenAI’s interest in South Korea isn't new. Earlier this year, the company announced a collaboration with local tech giant Kakao, aimed at developing AI-driven products tailored for Korean users. This partnership hinted at deeper ties, and Monday’s announcement makes clear that the relationship is expanding beyond product development into full-scale regional operations.
Chief Strategy Officer Jason Kwon is currently in Seoul and is expected to meet with representatives from both the ruling People Power Party and the main opposition Democratic Party, according to local media reports. These meetings are likely to explore avenues for aligning OpenAI’s ambitions with national policies and regulatory frameworks.
Why Korea?
The company sees South Korea as fertile ground for AI growth and experimentation, thanks to its robust tech infrastructure and widespread digital literacy.
“Korea's full-stack AI ecosystem makes it one of the most promising markets in the world for meaningful AI impact, from silicon to software, and students to seniors,” said Kwon in a statement.
The decision to establish a physical presence in Seoul suggests that OpenAI is not just seeking users but aiming to tap into the country’s innovation pipeline, ranging from advanced semiconductor technologies to a forward-thinking education system.
What’s Next?
OpenAI hinted that more details on local partnerships and operational plans will be unveiled in the coming months. For now, the company's move marks a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy—one that not only strengthens its footprint in Asia but also underscores the rising influence of Korean tech ecosystems in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.
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