The Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) is launching regional-based AI convergence R&D in earnest.

ETRI, together with Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, opened the ‘Jeju AX Convergence Research Lab’ at the Jeju Techno Park Future Industry Center in Jeju Advanced Science and Technology Complex on the 27th.

This opening is the first step of the ETRI Jeju Research Center pilot project that links the government's 'AI 3-Strategy' and Jeju Island's digital innovation policy, and will play a pivotal role in Jeju's future leap forward as a key ICT hub.

The 'Jeju AX Convergence Research Lab' focuses on research and development in three key areas specialized for the Jeju region: △AI-based climate tech, △AI conversion (AX) smart tourism, and △ultra-low-power AI semiconductors and talent development.

Through this, we plan to create a new growth business model by fusing local industries, natural environment, and tourism assets with AI technology and lay the foundation for digital transformation.

According to the institute officials, “This pilot project, which will be promoted at a total scale of 9 billion won, is an attempt to create a regional-led AI research ecosystem with Jeju Special Self-Governing Province directly bearing half of the budget.”

In particular, by strengthening ties with local universities, businesses, and research institutes such as Jeju National University, it is expected to produce tangible results in three aspects: technology verification and commercialization, and nurturing young talent.

ETRI plans to build a Jeju-style AI convergence ecosystem by conducting various joint researches with Jeju National University, such as △ carbon-neutral livestock verification, △ AI-based regional tourism service platform discovery, and △ large-scale language model (LLM) advancement. In addition, it plans to develop future-oriented technologies such as low-orbit satellite communications and 6G mobile communications in parallel.

ETRI President Seung-chan Bang, who attended the opening ceremony, said, “The Jeju AX Convergence Research Lab is the first step toward establishing the Jeju Research Headquarters,” and added, “I hope this will be a turning point for Jeju to leap forward as an AI innovation hub in East Asia.”

Jeju Governor Oh Young-hoon also emphasized, “The opening of this convergence research lab is a critical opportunity to grow Jeju into a global digital hub,” and “We will achieve inclusive growth that benefits all residents through AI technology.”