a day ago
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
NZ and ROK should work together on AI issues
Co-operation between Korea and New Zealand on AI is essential Choontae Park writes.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has now emerged as a key force, not only for technological innovation, but also as a variable that will shape the future of human civilisation.
As of 2025, AI is actively integrated into nearly every field — daily life, industry, economy, education, healthcare and beyond. However, the changes brought by AI are not entirely positive.
Challenges such as job displacement, invasion of privacy, deepening social inequality and ethical dilemmas lie ahead. These are complex issues that cannot be resolved by any single nation alone, as the impact of AI transcends national borders and spreads globally.
Therefore, international co-operation and close alliances are more important than ever. The declaration announced at the 3rd AI Smart Forum held in Seoul on May 16 provided important direction for the future of AI.
It emphasised AI was "not a replacement for humans, but a collaborator in building the future".
It also asserted that technology could not "be completed by science alone; true civilisation [was] only possible when accompanied by humanistic reflection and philosophy."
The declaration clearly stated that AI should enrich human life and contribute to world peace and universal values. This message offers profound insights into the path that Korea and New Zealand should walk together in the AI era.
Korea has been experiencing rapid growth in the AI field on a global scale. In December 2023, the Korean National Assembly passed the Basic Act on Artificial Intelligence, one of the world's first comprehensive AI laws. This law institutionalises the transparency, safety and ethical use of AI.
Korea is taking the lead in shaping international norms through collaboration. It continues to pursue a balance between technological innovation and ethical responsibility, ensuring that AI development earns public trust and accountability.
Meanwhile, New Zealand emphasises inclusive and sustainable AI development through its AI Blueprint for Aotearoa New Zealand (2020) and the Algorithm Charter for Aotearoa New Zealand (introduced in 2020). The country's AI policies prioritise core values such as human rights, diversity, inclusion, transparency, safety and accountability.
Notably, New Zealand places indigenous data sovereignty, welfare and the protection of minority rights at the heart of its AI policies. This approach ensures that AI does not harm any specific group and earns broad public trust and participation.
Korea and New Zealand possess complementary strengths in their AI strategies: Korea excels in technological innovation and policy leadership, while New Zealand offers a strong human-rights-centred and inclusive approach.
There are clear reasons why the two countries should collaborate. First, to strengthen ethical standards and humanistic reflection in AI. By jointly promoting AI research and education that combine science, humanities and philosophy, we can ensure that AI does not undermine human dignity or social values.
Second, to build a global AI governance system together. To address risks such as algorithmic bias and privacy infringement, the two nations must collaborate in international organisations and multilateral forums.
Third, to create an inclusive AI ecosystem. Korea and New Zealand should work to increase participation by women, indigenous peoples and minorities in AI development, and share policies that guarantee data sovereignty and fairness.
Fourth, joint research and standardisation are essential to secure public trust. Only AI that citizens can trust will achieve broad social acceptance.
Fifth, AI should be actively applied to realise social values. Collaborative projects should focus on addressing global issues such as climate change, public health, welfare and education.
Korea and New Zealand have already laid the groundwork for diverse AI co-operation. Going forward, the two countries should deepen their partnership in the following ways: conducting joint research and develop policies in AI ethics and governance; collaborating in the creation of international AI standards and actively participating in global regulatory discussions; and expanding AI education and talent exchange programmes to help nurture global AI leaders from the younger generation.
The countries should also develop and implement inclusive AI policies that protect vulnerable populations and guarantee data rights and promote joint projects in areas like climate action, healthcare, welfare and education using AI.
Ultimately, AI must enrich human life and help achieve global peace and shared values. Technology is not completed by science alone — true civilisation is possible only when paired with reflection and philosophy.
By pursuing a harmonious blend of innovation, ethics, inclusion, trust and international co-operation, Korea and New Zealand can become exemplary partners in the AI era.
— Dr Choontae Park is a former university dean who now lives in New Zealand.
