Digital Innovation

The Future of Local Communities through AI: Connecting Innovation

On November 28, 2024, Korea Local Information Research & Development Institute (KLID)  and FNF Korea successfully hosted the "3rd Global Forum for Local Digital Innovation and Governance" at Chavit, SomeSevit in Seoul. Under the theme "The Future of Local Communities through AI: Connecting Innovation," the forum brought together key figures to present digital policies from various countries for local governments with a focus on the use of digital technologies such as cloud, AI, and etc. for solving regional issues.

The forum commenced with an opening speech by Park, Deok-Soo, President of KLID and Frederic Spohr, Head of FNF Korea. Notable figures, including Jörn Beißert, Chargé d’Affaires a.i./ Deputy Head of Mission German Embassy to Korea and Cho, Young-Im, Chairwoman of the Board of KLID, provided congratulatory remarks.

The forum consisted of two main sessions and fostered knowledge exchange among Europe, South Korea, and the broader Asian region, contributing to regional cooperation and development through shared insights and best practices.

The first session, themed "The Era of AI and the Shift to Smart Governance: The Future of Local Administration Driven by Digital Innovation," explored the potential and challenges of administrative innovation in the AI era. Presentations were delivered by Professor Sung, Wookjoon from Seoul National University of Science and Technology and Wan-Ju Karen YU, President of Industrial Technology Investment Corporation from Taiwan who shared insights on using AI to drive governance transformation. The session also featured two distinguished discussants: Sirisak Laochankham, Dean of the College of Local Administration at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and Christian Wallraven, Professor at Korea University. The session concluded with a panel discussion led by Professor Choi, Jaesik from KAIST, examining the impact of digital innovation on local governments.

The second session, themed "AI, Crossing the Boundaries: Legal Challenges and Ethical Considerations," featured presentations by Celine Nauer, Project Advisor from FNF Global Innovation Hub in Taipei, and Professor Choi, Kyungjin from Gachon University. Both presentations addressed legislative frameworks and ethical challenges associated with AI, followed by an in-depth discussion led by Professor Kwon, Hun-Yeong from Korea University’s School of Cybersecurity.

Throughout the event, participants discussed various success stories and practical solutions for improving administrative services through AI. The forum not only highlighted the growing importance of digital innovation at the local government level but also strengthened collaborative efforts, further contributing to the sustainable development of the region.

*Lin Choi is the Program & Communications Officer of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom Korea office.