OpenAI has selected Kakao as its domestic partner in South Korea. The tech giant believes Kakao’s suite of products can deliver user-friendly AI services to the masses. By leveraging platforms like KakaoTalk, which boasts 50 million users, they aim to accelerate the expansion of artificial general intelligence (AGI).
On Tuesday, Kakao CEO Jeong Shin Ah and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman engaged in a dialogue at Kakao’s Media Day event at The Plaza Hotel in Seoul.
During the event, Kakao revealed its strategic alliance with OpenAI, announcing technological collaboration and joint product development plans.
When asked about choosing Kakao as a partner, Altman remarked that he has always had a fondness for Kakao and added that they share a common vision for AI.
The two companies’ shared vision centers on making AI technology seamlessly accessible to users, enhancing their daily lives.
Since September of last year, Kakao and OpenAI have reportedly discussed collaborating. Kakao believes that “securing the best model the fastest” could give them a competitive advantage.
Altman predicted that ChatGPT-4 would eventually be accessible via phone, emphasizing its mission to bring everyone the benefits of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI).
He stressed the importance of cutting-edge research and superior products in achieving this goal and expressed high hopes for the partnership with Kakao.
Kakao and OpenAI plan to bolster their collaboration across various sectors, rolling out a diverse array of services powered by OpenAI’s API.
Looking ahead, Altman expressed his desire to develop numerous joint products with Kakao to enhance the quality of life and contribute to scientific breakthroughs.
The specific details of the joint products have not been disclosed yet. Kakao, which offers various services such as KakaoTalk and Kakao Map, is preparing for change first in areas with high user needs.
The partnership doesn’t involve equity sharing or establishing a joint entity. Instead of setting rigid collaboration boundaries, they plan to organically grow their alliance, taking it one step at a time.
Jeong noted, “The scale of the investment may continue to grow, making it difficult to pin down exact figures,” adding that the partnership will evolve rapidly, creating a sense of momentum.
She further revealed that OpenAI and Kakao are investing in financing social capital and human resources in this joint venture.
The possibility of further collaboration with the South Korean government and businesses. When asked about potential government-backed involvement in the National AI Computing Center, Altman responded positively, saying, “We’re considering it.”
Regarding US President Donald Trump’s AI joint project, Stargate CEO Altman acknowledged that “Korea is also an important part.” He added that they keep partnership discussions confidential, so he could not comment further until an official announcement.