Gov't bets big on AI, chips for 2027 budget to compete in global tech race - The Korea Times

South Korea’s Ministry of Planning and Budget says the government will significantly ramp up spending on artificial intelligence and semiconductors to avoid structurally low growth and improve its position in the global tech race. The plan is built into a record 2027 budget of nearly 821 trillion won ($599 billion), with semiconductors, “physical AI,” and AI data centers named as three core pillars. Officials said 21.3 trillion won will go to those megaprojects, including 2.6 trillion won for physical AI demonstration projects and support for key infrastructure such as power, water, and industrial complexes. The budget would also supply 10,000 GPUs, data, and talent for a national AI foundation model.