South Korea’s AI Ambitions Intensify as 15 Consortiums Compete to Build National Foundation Model

In a bold move to secure its place in the global artificial intelligence race, South Korea has attracted significant interest from major tech players for its national foundation model initiative. The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) announced on 21st that 15 consortiums submitted proposals to participate in the government-led project. The submission period ran from June 20 to July 21 for developing a domestically-built AI foundation model.

The high-stakes initiative aims to reduce reliance on foreign AI technologies and foster a self-sustaining ecosystem. Leading Korean tech firms such as Naver Cloud, Kakao, SK Telecom, and KT have entered the competition, partnering with AI-specialized companies like Upstage, Lunit, and Konan Technology. The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), a leading research university, is also supporting one of the consortiums.

Other notable participants include Junction Med, Bionexus, Pion Corporation, NC AI, Motif Technologies, Scionic AI, and the LG AI Research Institute.

The MSIT will review the eligibility of submitted documents before narrowing the field from 15 to 10 consortiums through a written evaluation. A final round of presentations will determine the top five consortiums. These finalists will undergo budget deliberations and coordination, with final selections and contract signings expected by early August.

The government expects this project will create a competitive, homegrown foundation model tailored to Korea’s specific needs while strengthening the nation’s technological autonomy. Officials will announce the final list of selected consortiums following the contract phase.

The original press release is available on the official website of the Ministry of Science and ICT.