South Korea wants to put unlimited AI in every citizen’s hands

South Korea plans to offer its entire population free access to premium generative AI services through a new government initiative called “AI for All.” Jiyoung Sohn reports for The Wall Street Journal that the program is designed to treat AI more like a public utility while strengthening the country’s technological independence.

The government has selected three technology consortia to provide the services. They include KT, SK Telecom and a group involving Kakao, the operator of South Korea’s widely used messaging and digital-services platform. Beta testing is scheduled to begin in September, with a broader rollout planned later this year.

Users will receive unlimited usage of government-supported AI tools. The participating groups plan to launch dedicated apps and add AI functions to their existing services. The systems are expected to connect with government services, allowing users to book medical appointments, search for housing and receive tax guidance.

Small businesses could use the tools to calculate taxes and determine whether they qualify for public support programs. Parents may receive recommendations for educational content for their children.

Infrastructure and AI sovereignty

Seoul will distribute up to 512 Nvidia B200 AI chips among the three consortia and contribute to operating costs. The Ministry of Science and ICT has not disclosed the program’s total cost.

The initiative is part of President Lee Jae Myung’s wider AI strategy. His administration has allocated about 10 trillion won, roughly $7.2 billion, for AI-related spending in 2026. That is three times the previous year’s budget.

South Korea already has a large market for generative AI. Government survey data cited by the Journal indicates that about one quarter of South Koreans pay for such services. Officials estimate that more than 20 million people use free AI products. The new program does not set a public adoption target, but aims to reach the general population.