How AI Is Reshaping Infrastructure: More Than Just Software

When people talk about artificial intelligence (AI), they often think of chatbots, image generators, or smart assistants. But much like the internet before it, AI is quickly becoming what economists call a general-purpose technology—a foundational innovation that touches nearly every industry. AI is no longer just a support tool for digital platforms; it is actively transforming the physical infrastructure that underpins our world.

The Rise of Generative AI and the Role of Data Centers

One of the most visible shifts is how generative AI is reshaping the architecture of infrastructure itself. At the heart of this change are data centers—massive, energy-hungry facilities responsible for processing and storing the data that makes AI work.

According to a recent report by McKinsey, demand for data centers could increase fourfold by 2030, triggering over $2.5 trillion in investment. But this isn’t just about pouring money into servers. It’s about building the energy infrastructureto support them—new power plants, smarter grids, and advanced transmission lines that can reliably carry electricity to where it’s needed most.

Why Infrastructure Isn’t Just a Digital Issue

AI depends on physical systems just as much as digital ones. That’s why its influence extends beyond the realms of IT and deep into traditional infrastructure sectors. The ripple effects can be seen in transportation, utilities, energy production, and telecommunications. It’s not just about better algorithms—it's about the efficiency of roads, power grids, and fiber optic networks that make AI deployment possible.

When AI is embedded into these systems, the results are clear: better operational efficiency, smarter maintenance cycles, and increased productivity. Over time, these gains translate into higher profitability and better asset performance, especially in sectors where infrastructure is considered an investment.

Infrastructure as a Consumer Trust Anchor

Higher efficiency and profitability aren’t just metrics for boardrooms. They’re also about consumer welfare. Recent events—such as the SK Telecom data breach—have shown that people are willing to pay a premium for security, privacy, and reliability. In today’s economy, information is property, and the infrastructure that can protect it becomes a valuable asset.

We’ve moved beyond the old economic model where people only spent money on tangible goods. Today, consumers are just as likely to invest in invisible value: privacy, uptime, speed, and trust.

The Risks: AI Isn’t Perfect

Of course, AI is far from flawless. Concerns about the risks and limitations of AI technology persist. Even companies like Apple, with their vast resources, hesitate to release half-baked AI products—not because of technical constraints, but because of the enormous reputational risk. A single error can undermine not just a project, but an entire brand.

Add to that the growing worries around fake news, deepfakes, and intellectual property battles over training data, and it’s clear that the legal and ethical frameworks around AI still lag behind. For now, regulation remains largely reactive, offering more defense than direction.

A Double-Edged Sword with Unmatched Reach

Like any groundbreaking technology in history, AI brings both promise and peril. But it’s hard to deny that its rate of adoption and depth of penetration across industries is unprecedented.

AI is already dominating information search, gradually replacing traditional search engines with smarter, more intuitive tools. It’s deeply embedded in financial services, investment platforms, and decision-making systems—often outperforming humans in speed, consistency, and trust.

The belief that investing in AI-driven infrastructure will drive future wealth seems to be one of the few ideas with broad consensus.

 

"AI isn't just an app or a buzzword. It's becoming the nervous system of modern infrastructure. And if the early signs are any indication, those who invest smartly in this transformation—balancing digital power with physical resilience—will shape not only the next economy, but the next society."

When Big Tech Wins Quietly: Korea’s Retreat on Google’s Music Monopoly

 Google Faces Scrutiny in South Korea Over YouTube Premium Bundling Practice

South Korea’s Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) has announced it will initiate a "consent decision" procedure regarding Google’s practice of bundling YouTube Music with its subscription-based service, YouTube Premium. This decision comes after years of investigation that began in February 2023, focusing on whether the inclusion of music streaming in YouTube Premium constituted an abuse of market dominance and a restriction of consumer choice.

In 2018, Google launched YouTube Premium, a paid service that allows users to watch videos without ads. As part of the subscription, Google also included access to its music streaming service, YouTube Music. This bundling strategy quickly propelled YouTube Music to the top of Korea’s music streaming market. Domestic players like Melon and Genie Music had hoped that the antitrust probe would rein in Google's influence, but more than two years later, the KFTC has opted for a lighter regulatory path.

The consent decision procedure is a mechanism under South Korean antitrust law that allows companies under investigation to voluntarily propose corrective actions. If the KFTC deems these actions reasonable, the case can be closed without fines or formal sanctions.

Critics argue that this decision reflects the KFTC’s hesitancy to confront U.S. tech giants like Google and Microsoft due to potential trade tensions with Washington. Members of Korea’s domestic music industry have gone as far as to accuse the KFTC of giving Google a "free pass" while the platform continues to dominate the local streaming market.

The numbers support these concerns. Monthly active users of YouTube Music in Korea have more than doubled since 2021, rising from under 4 million to nearly 9.8 million. In contrast, local platforms have seen sharp declines: Melon has lost 880,000 users, Genie Music 1.2 million, and Flo around 600,000.

Live Nation and the Ticketmaster Controversy in the U.S.

The developments in Korea come amid a broader global reckoning with tech monopolies. In the U.S., the Department of Justice filed a landmark antitrust lawsuit in 2024 against Live Nation Entertainment. The company, which controls over 80% of the ticketing market following its 2010 acquisition of Ticketmaster, is accused of abusing its dominance to stifle competition.

Live Nation allegedly restricted independent artists from using alternative venues and prevented entry to fans who purchased tickets through non-Ticketmaster channels. Despite prior conditions set by U.S. regulators to prevent abuse of market position, Live Nation's practices appear to have contributed to the acquisition or demise of remaining competitors.

The DOJ's lawsuit seeks to break up Live Nation and Ticketmaster, and in March 2025, the Southern District Court of New York declined to dismiss the case, signaling that the government’s claims hold substantial merit. Many are calling this the most significant antitrust suit since the Microsoft Internet Explorer case of the late 1990s, which nearly led to the company being split in two.

A Tale of Two Approaches

While U.S. regulators aggressively pursue monopolistic behavior, Korea’s antitrust enforcement often stops short of formal sanctions. Regulatory agencies here have a tendency to resolve cases through administrative compromise rather than judicial resolution. This latest decision regarding Google only adds to the perception that Korean authorities remain reluctant to challenge the growing influence of global tech conglomerates in local markets.

As the digital economy continues to reshape global competition, South Korea may eventually be forced to reassess its stance on regulatory enforcement—especially when it comes to defending local industries from foreign tech giants.

Resurgence of COVID Variants in China and Southeast Asia

The Resurgence of COVID-19

Even in 2025, COVID-19 has not come to an end. Countries that are popular travel destinations for South Koreans – including China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Thailand – are reportedly seeing a new wave of COVID-19 infections. On May 21, the South China Morning Post reported that 30 people had died from COVID-19 in just the past four weeks. What makes this particularly concerning is not just the number of infections, but the number of reported deaths.

In China, about 16% of those who visited hospitals with respiratory symptoms were confirmed to have COVID-19. Considering there are people who didn’t even get tested, the actual numbers are likely higher. Analysts say that China’s recent Labor Day holiday period, which many used to travel and gather, may have contributed to the sharp increase in cases.

The situation in Taiwan appears to be even more severe. Reports indicate that the number of COVID-19 patients requiring emergency care has nearly doubled in just one week – from 10,000 to almost 20,000. Thailand, however, is experiencing an even higher number of cases, with confirmed infections surpassing 30,000.

Given that countries across Southeast Asia are seeing tens of thousands of new cases, it’s easy to anticipate a rapid surge – something we are all too familiar with. In Korea, too, COVID-19 may be spreading more quietly than expected. With no mandatory testing and the symptoms now closely resembling those of the common cold, people are not actively seeking out COVID-specific treatment anymore.

There have been no public health campaigns or advisories from authorities about renewed vaccination efforts or precautions against the recent rise in infections. Unless the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) takes action ahead of the upcoming presidential election, it may appear that the current administration is continuing the outdated and sluggish policies of the past. If we start seeing a rise in critical cases or deaths from COVID-19, responsibility will lie squarely with the Yoon administration and the public health officials who chose complacency.

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Is There a New Variant?

The JN.1 variant and its related sub-lineages, which belong to the Omicron family, are believed to be the main drivers of the recent COVID-19 surge across Asia. According to Singapore health authorities, new variants LF.7 and NB.1.8 – descendants of the JN.1 strain – are spreading rapidly.

JN.1 is a descendant of the BA.2.86 subvariant of Omicron. The World Health Organization (WHO) has currently classified JN.1 as a “variant of interest,” not yet a “variant of concern.” WHO has also assessed that the global public health risk posed by JN.1 remains low.

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Symptoms and Indicators of the JN.1 Variant

Most individuals infected with the JN.1 variant experience mild upper respiratory symptoms. Commonly reported symptoms include:

• Fever

• Runny nose

• Sore throat

• Headache

• Extreme fatigue

• Muscle weakness

• Exhaustion

• Mild gastrointestinal issues

In some cases, individuals may also experience loss of appetite and persistent nausea. Fortunately, these symptoms tend to be mild and usually improve within 4 to 5 days.

An Artistic Approach to Artificial Intelligence: Ahn Kim’s Media Art at the Crossroads of Technology and Imagination

Following in the footsteps of Nam June Paik—the pioneer of video art and one of South Korea’s most celebrated cultural exports—a new generation of media artists is capturing global attention. Among them is Korean artist Ayoung Kim, who was recently named the recipient of the 2025 LG Guggenheim Award, an international honor presented by the Guggenheim Museum in New York for artists who push the boundaries of artistic expression through advanced technology.

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“The Nature of Art Has Irrevocably Changed Since the Emergence of AI.”

At the award ceremony held on May 8, 2025, at the Guggenheim Museum on 89th Street in Manhattan, Kim was introduced as “a pioneering artist who expands the possibilities of art by realizing future-driven imagination through AI technology.” Her work, deeply rooted in digital media, spans a wide range of themes that explore the intersection of technology, temporality, and human experience in the digital age.

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From Game Engines to Geopolitics

Kim's artistic process fuses cutting-edge technologies like 3D graphics powered by gaming engines, AI-generated images, and multi-voice audio compositions. But her art is not merely a spectacle of technological prowess—it carries conceptual weight. Her works probe into contemporary social and geopolitical issues: oil economies, urban spatial politics, labor structures, and diplomatic tensions.

Her approach to media art shows that technology is not just a tool, but a medium, a subject, and an aesthetic logic in itself.

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From Pandemic Delivery Workers to AI-Created Worlds

Kim’s engagement with complex societal themes isn't new. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she presented a piece titled “Delivery Dancer”, which metaphorically examined the urban reliance on gig-economy platforms. This work later evolved into a sequel titled “Line of the Delivery Dancer: Inverse”, incorporating LiDAR scanning and 3D modelingto expand the narrative and spatial depth of the original.

Her forthcoming works will delve even further into generative AI. The visuals will be entirely AI-generated, and the art-making process itself will be dialogue-based, involving interaction with generative models. This signals a clear departure from traditional media—the technology is not just assisting in the creation but becoming a co-creator.

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Art in the AI Era: Interpretation Demands More Than Emotion

As Kim’s work suggests, interpreting art in the era of AI demands a new critical literacy. Viewers and critics alike must begin asking:

• Why this technology?

• What conceptual function does it serve?

• What does the artist intend to communicate through this medium, and why now?

Art is no longer merely an emotional or symbolic expression. Increasingly, it is also a technological proposition. The day may not be far off when art technologists—specialists who analyze the code, logic, and ethics embedded in digital art—will be as crucial as traditional curators and critics.

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Conclusion

Ayoung Kim’s work reminds us that we are entering an era where AI is not just influencing how we live, but how we imagine, create, and interpret art. As tools become subjects and mediums become meanings, the future of artistic expression will likely depend on how deeply we can engage with the technological architectures behind the canvas.

South Korea Sheds 'Orphan Exporter' Image as Overseas Adoptions Plummet

For decades, South Korea struggled to shake off the painful label of being one of the world’s largest "orphan exporters." Beginning with the aftermath of the Korean War and continuing into the era of single mothers placing children for adoption, overseas adoptions had long outnumbered domestic ones. But now, that narrative is starting to change — and the numbers prove it.

According to recent statistics released for 2024, only 58 children from South Korea were adopted overseas in the entire year. That marks an 82% drop compared to five years ago — a dramatic and meaningful decline that signals a turning point in South Korea’s adoption landscape.

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From Global Exports to Local Care

The fall in overseas adoptions is not just a numerical drop; it represents a deeper cultural and policy shift. For years, the stories of adult adoptees returning to Korea in search of their birth parents — often featured in tearful, poignant TV documentaries — highlighted the emotional scars of forced separation and identity loss.

But in contrast to the decline in international adoptions, domestic adoptions in Korea have steadily increased. In 2024, there were 154 domestic adoptions, almost triple the number of overseas placements. This reversal becomes even more striking when compared to 2019, when overseas adoptions made up 45% of all adoptions in Korea. Back then, domestic and international placements were nearly equal.

Today, the primary destinations for Korean children adopted abroad are still the United States (70.7%), Australia (8.6%), and Canada (6.9%).

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A Gender Balance at Home — But Not Abroad

Another positive sign is the narrowing gender gap in domestic adoptions. In Korea, the number of girls adopted slightly exceeded boys by just 0.6%, signaling a healthy shift in societal perceptions. This is in sharp contrast to international adoptions, where male children account for more than 72%, reflecting a long-standing preference for boys abroad.

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A New Era of Adoption Policy

Until now, the Korean government largely relied on private adoption agencies to handle both domestic and international adoptions. But starting July 2025, a public adoption system is expected to be established.

Under the new policy, local governments will take an active role in determining whether adoption serves the best interest of the child. For international cases, the Ministry of Health and Welfare will make the final decision. A bilateral review and certification system between Korea and receiving countries is expected to ensure the suitability of adoptive parents, making the process more transparent and child-focused.

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Building Systems for Birth Family Tracing

A persistent issue for many adoptees has been the lack of access to birth records. To this day, only about 1% of adoptees successfully locate their birth parents. Even when adoption records are found, data from the Ministry of Health and Welfare show that over half lack sufficient information for a successful reunion.

The new system aims to address this. Not only will there be better record management, but also more robust procedures for information disclosure and support for adoptees seeking birth families — especially for those who return as adults in search of their roots.

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Conclusion

The decline in overseas adoptions and the rise in domestic placements mark a major shift in South Korea’s approach to child welfare. No longer defined by painful separations and international departures, the country is beginning to foster a more self-sufficient, child-centered adoption culture — and in doing so, rewriting its global reputation.

“We’re not exporting children anymore — we’re protecting them at home.”

South Korea: A Patent Powerhouse — But Is Quantity Enough?

South Korea ranks among the world’s most prolific nations when it comes to patent filings. In fact, when adjusted for economic size, South Korea leads the globe in patent applications per GDP, according to data published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

In a recent survey by the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) on entities holding multiple intellectual property rights, Samsung Electronics was identified as the top patent holder in the country — unsurprising given its technological breadth and aggressive IP strategy.

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A Look Back: Korea’s First Patent Was About More Than Invention

Korea’s very first patent dates back to 1909, during the Japanese colonial era. It was granted to Jung In-ho, a recognized independence activist, for an invention related to traditional horsehair hats. It’s said that profits from this invention were used to support Korea’s independence movement.

After liberation in 1945, the first patent registered in modern Korea was filed by the Central Industrial Research Institute (today’s Korean Agency for Technology and Standards) for a process related to manufacturing oil-based dyes.

Since then, Korea’s patent journey has accelerated dramatically. As of the end of 2024, 2,705,171 patents have been granted in the country — a staggering figure that supports Korea’s growing reputation as a global “patent superpower.”

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Samsung Leads, But Others Follow Closely

Samsung Electronics alone holds 134,802 patents, accounting for 5% of all Korean patents. Following closely is LG Electronics with 77,802 patents (2.9%), Hyundai Motor Company with 54,305, and SK Hynix with 39,071.

These four tech giants — Samsung, LG, Hyundai, and SK Hynix — collectively account for over 10% of all registered patents in the country. Their aggressive patent portfolios have undoubtedly helped South Korea maintain its high international rankings.

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But What About the Technology Behind the Numbers?

With such impressive statistics, it’s tempting to take South Korea’s status as a technological leader at face value. But quantity doesn’t always equal quality — and recent events have exposed some uncomfortable truths.

Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), for example, has long touted the nation's nuclear technology as world-class. But when competing for a nuclear power plant contract in the Czech Republic, KHNP’s bid leaned more on price competitiveness than on technological superiority. During the process, it was revealed that KHNP does not own the original core patents for the nuclear technology it was offering.

In fact, it had to strike a licensing deal with Westinghouse, agreeing to pay substantial royalties just to proceed with the bidding. Some analysts predict that even if KHNP wins the contract, royalty payments may outweigh the project’s predicted profits. The deal itself is currently suspended under pressure from France.

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Beyond Patent Counts: The Need for Core Technologies

All of this leads to a critical question: Are South Korea’s patents truly translating into proprietary, core technologies? It’s easy to measure national innovation by counting applications or granted patents. But it’s far more important to assess how strategically those patents are being used, and whether they represent technologies owned, not just used, by the filing entity.

Korea's next leap forward in innovation won’t be defined by how many patents it files — but by how many of those patents represent true technical independence.

The “Senior Army”: A Joke No More?

Right now, South Korea is deep in presidential election season. But what I’m about to talk about isn’t anyone’s official campaign pledge — at least not yet. Still, it’s one of those quirky policy ideas that seems to surface every now and then, almost like a running joke. At first, I thought it was just a clever what-if. But now? I’m starting to think... maybe it’s not such a bad idea after all. Maybe — just maybe — we should seriously consider it.

I vaguely recall some politician floating this idea years ago, though I can’t remember who it was — and honestly, it doesn’t matter. So, let’s just get to the point: I’m talking about the "Senior Army."

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Why Not Put the Over-50s in Uniform?

With South Korea facing a serious decline in birthrates, the military is grappling with a shrinking pool of able-bodied young conscripts. Talks about expanding mandatory service to include women have already made headlines. But here’s another angle: What if, instead of drafting more young people, we brought in the 50-somethings and beyond?

Think about it — in the event of a war, wouldn’t the government gladly hand a rifle to a willing 55-year-old if it meant defending the country? Sure, no one’s suggesting middle-aged folks should endure the same grueling boot camp or serve in frontline combat units like twenty-somethings. But what about non-combat roles? Admin work? Guard duty? Support positions?

With decades of professional and life experience, many of these seniors could contribute meaningfully in support capacities. Honestly, there’s even a part of me — despite all my memories of exhausting army life — that wouldn’t mind hitting the shooting range one more time.

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The Nostalgia Factor Is Real

I still remember nighttime marksmanship drills, scoring perfect hits, or crushing it in urban combat simulations during daytime training. That one time our squad earned a rare weekend pass thanks to our sharpshooting? Good times. It’s these kinds of memories that make me feel a slight pull toward the idea of revisiting a place like Suwon’s military firing range, where we trained on moving targets, paired shooting, precision drills, and more.

To be clear, I’m not a military geek. I don’t wear camouflage to the grocery store or follow weapons forums. But still... something about the thought of one last round on the range sparks a strange sort of pride.

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Policy Potential or Midlife Madness?

Sure, the image of gray-haired, achy-kneed civilians donning fatigues may seem both absurd and a little depressing. At our age, we’re more likely to be managing high blood pressure than battlefield strategy. But here’s the thing — if the alternative is wasting men’s productivity through pointless reserve or civil defense drills, why not make room for a structured, part-time system of senior soldiers who commute home at night?

With the right support, this could become a policy worth exploring.

Who knows? Turning seniors into defense assets could even become a selling point for Korean-made weapons abroad. Imagine the PR: "If our 60-year-olds can handle it, imagine what your troops could do!"

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So, is it a satirical fantasy or a future-forward solution? Either way, don’t be too quick to laugh it off. The Senior Army may just be an idea whose time has come.

When the State Steps into the Market

 

Understanding “Government-Led Finance” in Today’s Economy

In recent years, economic terms with the prefix “gwan (官)”, meaning state or government, have become more frequent in public discourse. After phrases like “gwan-bong-gwon” (state-backed bonds) made headlines, another concept is drawing attention in times of economic slowdown: “government-led finance,” or in Korean, gwan-chi keum-yung (관치금융).

Let’s break this down.

What Is “Government-Led Finance”?

The term 관치금융 is a combination of 관(官), meaning government, and 금융, meaning finance. Together, it refers to a system in which the government directly intervenes in the financial sector — especially in personnel appointments and capital allocation.

In many cases, “관치” (government-led or state-controlled) carries a negative connotation. It often implies that decisions in the financial sector are made not transparently through market mechanisms or legal frameworks, but rather behind the scenes, under administrative discretion.

Governments, of course, prefer softer terminology — financial supervision. In fact, many regulatory bodies around the world are designed with this oversight role in mind. Korea’s Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) is one such example. Similarly, the UK operates the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which even evaluates the fitness of executives in financial institutions. Each year, the FCA identifies a handful of unqualified individuals through rigorous screening of tens of thousands. The European Central Bank (ECB) conducts similar suitability assessments across 129 major European banks.

Interest Rates: The Double Standard?

Now let’s talk about something closer to home: why are deposit rates falling while loan rates remain high? Financial authorities cite the record-high household debt as the reason why banks are reluctant to lower loan interest rates. Yet, this policy disproportionately affects lower-income households, who rely on borrowing just to survive. Wealthier individuals, with easier access to collateral, are finding this a golden opportunity.

With interest rates low and borrowing accessible to the few, some wealthy individuals are reportedly taking out maximum loans, combining them with existing deposits, and snapping up real estate assets offloaded by over-leveraged households — the so-called “young-and-rich squeeze buyers” phenomenon.

Who's the real winner : Customers, Banks, or Government?

All of this is incredibly profitable for banks. Their net interest margin (NIM) — the difference between what they pay on deposits and what they earn on loans — has widened significantly.

Just a year ago, NH Nonghyup was the only major bank with a NIM over 1%. Hana Bank’s margin was just 0.41%. Today, net interest margins hover around 1.38–1.55% across major commercial banks. To put it in simple terms: if a bank offers a 3% interest rate on a ₩1 million deposit and lends that same amount at 4.5%, the ₩15,000 difference is the bank’s profit.

This might not seem huge — until you multiply it by millions of accounts and loans. Banks that were barely earning ₩5,000 per ₩1 million in deposits are now pulling in three times as much.

No wonder some investors say it makes more sense these days to buy bank stocks rather than park money in savings accounts. In Q1 alone, the top four Korean banks (KB Kookmin, Woori, Shinhan, Hana) earned ₩10.6421 trillion (about $7.8 billion) in interest income. That’s enough money to run a small country.

The Ironic Question: Who Is This “Supervision” Really Helping?

So here’s the big question: Is this government-led financial control truly about protecting the economy? Household lending is being tightly controlled under the premise that it's a threat to national stability. Yet, the policy results in banks raking in profits, while everyday borrowers are squeezed out of the credit market.

In the name of “financial supervision,” are we witnessing state-controlled finance at its most aggressive?

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P.S:

When economic hardship meets policy opacity, it’s always worth asking: Who benefits from the control — and who bears the cost?

Analyzing Patent Trends in Edge AI Platform Technologies

Global Patent Trends in Edge-Device-Based Real-Time Intelligence Platforms

As edge computing continues to reshape the future of AI and real-time analytics, a closer look at global patent filing trends reveals the accelerating pace of innovation in this domain. Over the past two decades, particularly since 2016, there has been a sharp increase in patent applications for edge-device-based real-time intelligence platforms, reflecting both technological maturation and market demand.

Patent filing trends by year and by country

A Surge in Global Patent Activity Since 2016

Patent data from five major intellectual property offices — KIPO (South Korea), USPTO (United States), JPO (Japan), EPO (Europe), and CNIPA (China) — shows a clear upward trend in filings related to edge intelligence technologies. This surge aligns closely with the rise of IoT devices and the commercial deployment of 5G, both of which have dramatically increased the need for low-latency, on-device AI processing.

Which Countries Are Leading the Race?

Based on the latest patent filing data, the United States is currently leading innovation in this space, accounting for 43%of total global filings. China follows with 27%, while South Korea stands at 16%, Europe at 8%, and Japan at 6%.

This distribution highlights not only the dominant role of the U.S. in shaping the edge AI ecosystem but also the rapidly growing activity in Asia — particularly in China and South Korea, both of which are investing heavily in AI semiconductor design and edge infrastructure.

Year-on-Year Growth Reflects Market Momentum

Looking at the annual breakdown, patent filings for edge-device-based real-time platforms have been consistently rising since 2016. This growth trend is no coincidence. It reflects a fundamental shift in computing paradigms — from centralized cloud models to distributed, edge-based architectures.

As 5G networks expand, enabling faster and more reliable device connectivity, and as IoT ecosystems scale up, demand for intelligent edge processing is only set to grow. The patent data strongly supports this, serving as a leading indicator of where the industry is headed.

Measuring Innovation Impact and Market Reach in Edge AI Platforms

As the global race for edge-device-based real-time intelligence platforms intensifies, two key metrics help assess not just who is innovating, but whose innovations are actually shaping the industry: CPP (Citations Per Patent) and PFS (Patent Family Size).

What Do CPP and PFS Really Measure?

• CPP (Citations Per Patent) is an indicator of technological impact. It reflects how frequently a registered patent is cited by other patents — the more citations, the greater its influence and perceived quality. High CPP suggests that a patent contributes foundational or widely applicable knowledge to the field.

• PFS (Patent Family Size), on the other hand, is a proxy for market dominance. It shows how many countries a particular patent has been filed in, helping us understand whether the applicant is targeting a global market. The broader the filing footprint, the stronger the market ambition.

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Global Leaders in Edge AI Patent Quality and Reach

According to recent patent analysis in the domain of edge-device-based real-time AI platforms, Juniper Networksstands out globally as a company with highly influential patents. Juniper recorded a CPP of 7.7, reflecting strong technological relevance, and a PFS of 2.8, indicating a solid international patent presence.

In contrast, LG Electronics, one of South Korea’s leading tech firms, is active in this space but currently holds lower figures — with a CPP of 1.8 and PFS of 2.2. While LG’s participation is notable, these values suggest its patents may not yet be at the forefront of global impact or market reach in this specific technology segment.

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Key Players in South Korea: A Mixed Picture

Zooming in on South Korean applicants, we see an interesting distribution of strengths:

• KISENS leads in technological influence with an impressive CPP of 24.7, marking its patents as highly cited and likely to be of foundational importance in the edge AI field. However, its PFS is 1.0, indicating limited global market expansion — suggesting a strong R&D presence but relatively narrow commercialization.

• Kyung Hee University and Datacentric, by contrast, hold zero CPP but score 3.0 in PFS, meaning their patent filings are spread across multiple countries. This implies that although their patents may not yet be widely cited, these institutions are actively positioning themselves in the global market, likely through international collaborations or strategic filings.

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Interpreting the Patent Landscape

These figures underline a critical takeaway: patent quantity alone is no longer enough. What truly matters is how widely a patent is cited (its influence) and how broadly it is protected (its market footprint). Companies like Juniper Networks have established a strong balance between the two, setting a benchmark in the edge AI race.

Meanwhile, Korean players are showing diverse strategies — from deep innovation (KISENS) to aggressive internationalization (Kyung Hee University, Datacentric). As edge computing evolves, a blend of both will be essential to stay competitive on the global stage.

When is your Children's Day?

 The Origins of Children’s Day in Korea

oday is Children's Day, a national holiday in Korea!

Children’s Day in South Korea is more than just a public holiday — it is a day established to celebrate the dignity, happiness, and growth of children. The official purpose of the day is to help children grow into upright, wise, and strong individuals, while also fostering societal affection and respect for them.

Interestingly, the term “children” (어린이, eorini) itself has only been in use for just over a century. The roots of Korea’s Children’s Day trace back to the aftermath of the March 1st Movement in 1919, when a nationwide independence movement against Japanese colonial rule swept across the country. This historical moment awakened a sense of national identity, even among the youth.

In 1921, the movement to protect children’s rights and inspire national consciousness led to the founding of the Cheondogyo Boy Scouts, spearheaded by Bang Jeong-hwan, also known by his pen name Sopa. He coined the term eorini (children) and advocated for children to be treated with respect. Under his leadership, the group launched Korea’s first organized children’s rights movement.

Their slogan was simple yet powerful:

“Let us be brave and honest children. Let us always love and help one another.”

Two years later, on May 1, 1923, the first official Children’s Day celebration was held in Seoul. It coincided with International Labor Day, symbolizing hope for the future of the next generation.

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Why May 5?

Following Korea’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule in 1945, Children’s Day was moved to May 5. It became more institutionalized over time:

• 1961: The Child Welfare Act officially designated May 5 as Children’s Day.

• 1973: It became a nationally recognized commemorative day.

• 1975: It was officially designated as a public holiday.

In 2005, the government expanded the celebration to cover an entire week — Children’s Week, from May 1 to May 7. This shift aimed to increase public awareness and host various events that support children’s well-being and development.

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Korea’s Children’s Charter

In 1957, Korean author Ma Hae-song and six other members of the Korean Association of Children’s Writers drafted the first Children’s Charter, which was announced during the 35th Children’s Day ceremony.

The Charter emphasized the following core principles:

• Children must be respected as individuals.

• They should be educated with true affection.

• In times of danger, children should be rescued first.

The Charter was later revised in 1988 to better reflect modern democratic values, emphasizing children’s dignity as citizens of a democratic society. In 2015, a separate Children’s Play Charter was introduced to reinforce children’s right to play and encourage families, schools, and communities to support healthy leisure.

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So, Who Qualifies as a “Child”?

There’s no single definition, but developmental psychology typically defines childhood as the age range between 6 and 12 (or up to 13). Legally, Korea’s Child Welfare Act defines a child as any person under the age of 18, meaning Children’s Day formally includes those up to 17 years old.

Culturally, however, the term “child” often refers to younger kids — from toddlers to elementary school students — while older teens are usually referred to as youth or adolescents. So the psychological definition often aligns better with real-world usage.

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Is Children’s Day on May 5 Around the World?

Although South Korea celebrates on May 5, Children’s Day is observed in many countries, and the dates vary:

• June 1: International Children’s Day (set in 1925 at the World Conference on Child Welfare)

• May 5 (Japan): Celebrated as Boys’ Day, while Girls’ Day falls on March 3

• Turkey, India, and many Islamic countries also have nationally recognized Children’s Days, though dates differ

• UK and France don’t have a specific holiday but emphasize year-round respect and protection of children’s rights

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Final Thoughts

Children’s Day in Korea is not only a celebration but a reminder — of the importance of respecting and nurturing the younger generation. It’s a day that reflects the nation’s hopes for its future, shaped by those who will inherit it.

So on May 5, whether you're in Korea or simply inspired by the spirit of the day, take a moment to reflect on how we can all create a better world for children — not just one day a year, but every day.

What Is an Edge-Device-Based AI Platform?

What Is an Edge-Device-Based AI Platform?

An edge-device-based AI platform refers to an intelligent computing system that enables near real-time data analysis, decision-making, and execution directly on the edge device — without needing constant connectivity to a central server. By embedding lightweight AI models into edge devices, such platforms provide low-latency, autonomous functionality even in disconnected environments.

Typically, these platforms are powered by compact GPUs and embedded AI systems such as NVIDIA Jetson, running core deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch. This setup allows independent product development with substantial computing capabilities.

the predicted world market size of Edge-Device Platform 

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Edge AI vs. Cloud AI

Edge AI is a natural evolution of edge computing, wherein data processing occurs at the network’s edge, closer to the data source, rather than relying on centralized cloud servers. Unlike traditional cloud computing, which sends massive data back and forth to centralized servers, edge AI enables:

• Local data analysis and prediction

• Reduced network congestion

• Faster responsiveness

• Greater data privacy and security

This technology is crucial in bandwidth-constrained or high-latency environments such as factories, autonomous vehicles, or remote monitoring stations.

an example of the Edge-device Platform structure

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Why Edge AI Is Gaining Momentum

The rise of IoT and the exponential growth of data have pushed cloud infrastructure to its limits. As a result, edge AI has emerged as a scalable solution for:

• Real-time analytics and response

• On-device AI decision-making

• Reduced data transmission and storage costs

• System resilience in network-disrupted scenarios

Edge AI enables intelligent processing on-site — a fundamental shift that improves responsiveness, especially in sectors like healthcare, emergency response, and physical security.

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Technological Advantages of Edge AI

1. Low Latency and High Responsiveness

Edge AI processes data near the source, enabling real-time insights without round-tripping data to cloud servers. This is essential in time-sensitive applications such as autonomous driving or industrial automation.

2. Reduced Bandwidth Consumption

Only relevant data or insights need to be sent to the cloud, minimizing network load and operating costs.

3. Enhanced Security

Data processed locally is less exposed to external threats. Edge AI reduces the surface area for cyberattacks by keeping raw data off the cloud.

4. Scalability in Real-World Scenarios

From smart factories to autonomous drones, edge platforms provide scalable AI solutions where centralized processing falls short.

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Global Leaders in Edge AI Technology

Qualcomm (USA)

• Leading provider of AI-optimized SoCs (System-on-Chip) for edge devices

• Launched Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (2022) for ultra-low-power AI inference

• Runs AI Research program to improve computing efficiency and reduce power consumption

NVIDIA (USA)

• Developed the Jetson Orin series for robotics, drones, and self-driving vehicles

• Offers a full stack from Jetson Nano to Jetson Xavier for scalable deployment

• Integrated with Metropolis platform for real-time video and analytics at the edge

Google (USA)

• Provides Vertex AI, a managed ML platform that supports the full model lifecycle

• Features tools like Vertex Vizier (for rapid experimentation) and Vertex Feature Store

• Enables efficient MLOps and model deployment without requiring deep ML expertise

Microsoft (USA)

• Released Azure IoT Edge, a dynamic software platform that pushes AI to IoT endpoints

• Supports Azure ML, Stream Analytics, and Functions locally on edge devices

• Holds nearly 300 edge computing-related patents

IBM (USA)

• Introduced Watson Tone Analyzer and Speech-to-Text for edge gateways

• Developed proof-of-concept Edge Analytics for distributed IoT processing

Intel (USA)

• Offers OpenVINO Toolkit for deep learning inference at the edge

• Supports major frameworks like TensorFlow and Caffe

• Compatible with Intel GPUs, FPGAs, and VPUs (Movidius)

Amazon (USA)

• Provides AWS IoT Greengrass for local ML inference, data caching, and messaging

• Offers AWS Wavelength to deliver 5G-powered edge services

• Brings compute and storage to the edge via Wavelength Zones

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Edge AI in Korea: Current Landscape

Samsung Electronics

• Commercialized smartphone-dedicated AI chips

• Integrated NPU (Neural Processing Unit) into Exynos 9810 for fast image processing

• Investing in neuromorphic chips for future edge intelligence

SK Telecom

• Developed SAPEON X220, a high-performance AI semiconductor for data centers

• 1.5x faster deep learning inference than traditional GPUs

• Adopted Xilinx FPGAs and AI acceleration in services like NUGU

LG Electronics & LG CNS

• LG established a research lab in Toronto to develop Edge AI and reinforcement learning

• LG CNS launched the CNS IoT Gateway for smart factory lighting control

• Future expansions include location tracking and sensor data aggregation

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The Strategic Importance of Edge AI

The shift from centralized AI systems to edge-based intelligence is not just a technical upgrade — it's a strategic transition. Businesses increasingly need:

• Autonomous, always-on systems even without stable internet

• Product-embedded intelligence to enhance standalone capabilities

• Customizable, scalable AI platforms compatible with SMEs and specialized devices

Edge AI is not only the future of computing — it’s a current necessity across industries facing data overload, real-time demands, and infrastructure limitations.