Seoul, Sep 24 – South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will preside over an open debate on artificial intelligence (AI) at the UN Security Council (UNSC) in New York on Tuesday, becoming the first South Korean leader to chair such a session. The debate comes as South Korea assumed the rotating presidency of the UNSC this month as a non-permanent member for the 2024-2025 term.
President Lee is expected to stress the need for the responsible use of AI to advance peace and security. In his UN General Assembly address, he cautioned that passive adaptation to the AI era could deepen inequality, polarization, and human rights violations, but argued that proactive measures could turn AI into a driver of innovation, prosperity, and stronger democracy.
As part of these efforts, South Korea will launch an “AI Initiative” at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting scheduled in Gyeongju from October 31 to November 1.
On the sidelines of the UN meetings, Lee held bilateral talks with world leaders including Italy, France, Poland, and Uzbekistan. In his first in-person meeting with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the two leaders discussed enhancing cooperation in critical minerals, transportation, and infrastructure such as railways, airports, and roads. Lee highlighted opportunities to create synergy between Uzbekistan’s abundant mineral resources and South Korea’s advanced technological expertise.
He also acknowledged the contributions of more than 170,000 ethnic Koreans living in Uzbekistan to strengthening bilateral ties and sought continued support for them. Both leaders agreed to cooperate closely on South Korea’s plan to host the inaugural “Korea-Central Asia Summit” next year.
Lee’s engagements reflect Seoul’s determination to position itself as a global leader in shaping the future of AI governance and deepening strategic partnerships worldwide.
