SK chairman calls for sustainable AI biz model amid investment boom

SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won has urged the creation of a sustainable business model for artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing that massive investment in the technology must ultimately generate returns to ensure continued investment and growth. During the SK Group's annual gathering, the Ulsan Forum 2026 in Ulsan, Chey made these remarks at the company's large-scale AI data center being developed in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS).

Chey stressed that humankind must establish better business models to monetize AI, given the significant energy and resources that have been invested in the technology. He highlighted speed, scale, and safety as the essential pillars of SK's AI strategy, while stressing the need for viable business models to ensure the long-term sustainability of AI investment.

Chey cautioned against the possibility of an AI investment bubble if the substantial capital and resources flowing into the sector fail to generate sufficient returns. He stressed the importance of developing a self-sustaining ecosystem where AI can thrive and generate profits, ensuring the long-term viability of AI investment.