Collective learning in decline: Korea's hidden risk

Korea possesses many attributes that would seem ideal for thriving in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). The nation is home to leading semiconductor manufacturers, boasts some of the world's fastest digital infrastructure, features a highly educated workforce, and the government is prepared to invest heavily in AI development.

Korean businesses are actively integrating generative AI into their operations, educational institutions are establishing new AI-focused programs, and policymakers are increasingly positioning AI as a crucial element of national competitiveness and resilience. On paper, it would appear that Korea should be among the primary beneficiaries of the AI revolution.

However, the author expresses concern that Korea may be focusing on the wrong indicators of success. In an era dominated by AI, the country with the most advanced chips, the largest artificial intelligence models, or the greatest data volumes may not be the most advantageous. Instead, the author argues that the most decisive advantage may belong to the society that excels at recognizing change, comprehending its implications, making informed decisions, taking appropriate actions, and learning swiftly from the outcomes.

In essence, the critical capability may not be AI itself, but rather collective learning. Unfortunately, Korea appears to be lagging in this area. While the country has made rapid advancements in technological capabilities, these developments have outpaced the development of collective learning mechanisms within Korean society.