OpenAI Expands Reach in Asia with Kakao Deal and Talks with Tech Giants
OpenAI has announced a collaboration with South Korea's Kakao to develop artificial intelligence products, marking a significant partnership in the region. This development comes on the heels of OpenAI's engagements with tech giants like Samsung Electronics, SoftBank, and Arm Holdings during a recent visit to Seoul.
OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, revealed discussions with SoftBank's Masayoshi Son regarding the Stargate AI data centre project in the United States. Altman's whirlwind tour also included a partnership announcement with SoftBank for AI services in Japan, showcasing OpenAI's commitment to expanding its presence in the Asian market.
Kakao, known for its popular messaging app KakaoTalk, expressed its intent to leverage technology from OpenAI for its products, highlighting a focus on AI as a driver of growth. Altman emphasised the importance of Korea's energy, semiconductor, and internet sectors, positioning the country as a key market for AI solutions with a growing demand.
Altman hinted at the involvement of Korean companies in the Stargate data centre project, a collaboration between OpenAI and Oracle aimed at enhancing AI capabilities in the U.S. Despite declining to provide specifics, Altman stressed the significance of maintaining confidentiality in partnership discussions.
During discussions at Samsung's offices, SoftBank's Son hinted at potential cooperation with Samsung, a sentiment echoed by Arm CEO Rene Haas, underscoring Samsung's value as a strategic partner. However, Samsung refrained from commenting on the meeting, leaving details undisclosed.
Altman's meeting with SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won also shed light on the comprehensive cooperation plans for AI chips and the AI ecosystem, with discussions covering potential partnerships in the AI computing sector. Altman expressed OpenAI's active consideration of joining South Korea's national AI computing centre project, aligning with the country's plans for significant investment in AI infrastructure.
OpenAI partners with Kakao for AI product development in South Korea
Discussions with tech giants like Samsung, SoftBank, and Arm Holdings highlight OpenAI's strategic engagements
Emphasis on Korea's energy, semiconductor, and internet sectors as key markets for AI solutions
Source: REUTERS