Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept in Seoul; it’s a present reality, seamlessly woven into the fabric of daily life and industry. The city’s proactive approach to AI integration is enhancing convenience, fostering innovation, and positioning Seoul as a global leader in technology.
AI in Everyday Life
Recent surveys reveal a significant uptick in AI usage among Seoul residents. According to the ‘2025 Seoul Citizens’ Digital Competency Survey,’ 43.2% of citizens have used generative AI, a threefold increase over two years. This surge spans various age groups, with 68% of those aged 60 and older reporting AI usage. The primary applications include information search, everyday conversation, and document work, indicating AI’s growing role in daily activities.
Moreover, the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s analysis of 350,000 social media posts indicates a shift in public perception. Citizens increasingly view AI not merely as technology but as a companion in daily life, reflecting a 5.7 percentage point rise in positive sentiment over the past year.
AI in Industry and Innovation
Seoul’s commitment to AI extends beyond personal use into industrial applications. The city has unveiled a vision to become a ‘physical AI leading city,’ transforming urban spaces into testbeds for AI technologies. This strategy includes developing the ‘Physical AI Belt,’ linking the Yangjae AI cluster with the Suseo Robot cluster, to facilitate real-world AI applications in sectors like transportation, healthcare, and public safety.
Startups are at the forefront of this transformation. For instance, Realworld, a physical AI startup, is leveraging Korea and Japan’s manufacturing data to develop industrial robot AI, aiming to lead global ‘robot transformation’ in manufacturing.
Bridging the Generational Divide
Despite the rapid adoption, a generational divide persists. While 65% of those under 55 feel prepared for the AI era, only 19.6% of the elderly share this sentiment. Addressing this gap is crucial to ensure inclusive benefits from AI advancements.
Seoul’s integration of AI into daily life and industry exemplifies a city embracing technological evolution. As AI continues to permeate various facets of society, ongoing efforts to bridge generational divides and address ethical considerations will be essential in shaping a future where technology and humanity coexist harmoniously.