[Courtesy of Naver]

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South Korean companies, including internet giant Naver Corp. and Samsung Electronics Co., are rushing to join the next-generation artificial intelligence (AI) competition currently led by global tech firms such as Google LLC and OpenAI.

According to multiple sources in the information technology (IT) industry on Wednesday, Naver, which rolled out its own large language model (LLM) HyperCLOVA X in August, is seeking to sign a comprehensive memorandum of understanding with Saudi Arabian firms in the digital sector including AI.

Saudi Arabia is known to be interested in developing its own LLM while looking for AI joint projects with countries beyond the United States and China.

Naver could create AI models using local data in the same way that it tapped into its technology to develop HyperCLOVA X.

The models can operate without concerns about data leaks by adhering to local laws and regulations, sources said.

Naver has plans to export its services to Japan and Southeast Asia, leveraging the strong presence of its affiliate LINE.

Naver has focused on the domestic business-to-business (B2B) sector to solidify its position.

More than 1,300 startups, research institutes, and enterprises across the country have adopted Naver’s LLM model, with the newly launched Neurocloud for HyperCLOVA X gaining positive feedback, particularly from companies sensitive to data leaks.

Samsung Electronics also unveiled its self-developed generative AI model, Samsung Gauss, last month. The company plans to apply on-device AI technology utilizing Gauss to various products.

Korea’s three mobile carriers SK telecom Co., KT Corp., and LG Uplus Corp. are also engaged in the development of customized AI services.