Home / Technology / AI Squid Game: Korea's Fierce AI Model Race
AI Squid Game: Korea's Fierce AI Model Race
20 Feb
Summary
- Korea aims to be a top AI powerhouse with a new competition.
- Motif Technologies joins LG AI, SK Telecom in AI contest.
- AI models face ruthless evaluation and elimination every six months.
South Korea is intensifying its pursuit of AI supremacy through a high-stakes tournament, informally dubbed the "AI Squid Game." This initiative is a key part of the nation's strategy to emerge as one of the world's top three AI powerhouses.
The Ministry of Science and ICT has selected a team led by startup Motif Technologies to advance in the competition. Motif will join other prominent teams from LG AI Research and SK Telecom, aiming to develop indigenous open-source AI models comparable to global frontier technologies.
The tournament's format is described as ruthless, with AI foundation models undergoing evaluation and potential elimination every six months. This rigorous process is designed to drive innovation and ensure the development of cutting-edge AI capabilities.
Motif Technologies, supported by AI software firm Moreh, was chosen for its proven expertise in designing advanced AI models. This selection underscores Korea's commitment to nurturing domestic talent and fostering a competitive AI ecosystem.
In parallel, the Chinese AI market is experiencing significant investor activity. Generative AI startups Zhipu and MiniMax Group saw their shares surge in Hong Kong. This surge contrasts with a dip in shares of established tech giants like Alibaba and Tencent, as investors rotate towards specialized AI companies.
Chinese firms have been actively releasing updated AI models and new features, fueled by competition and the Lunar New Year holiday. This has kept investor attention firmly on the AI sector.
Analysts are optimistic about companies like MiniMax, with several initiating 'buy' ratings and setting ambitious price targets. However, expectations for China's tech giants are shifting, with investors scrutinizing the tangible returns on their substantial AI investments.
Regulatory scrutiny is also a factor, as Chinese authorities have called on major online platforms to manage promotional practices. Traditional giants face pressure due to slower growth in their core businesses, and investors are closely watching the impact of their AI initiatives on earnings.
