South Korea

LG전자, 퀄컴과 미래 AIDV 시대 선도

ZD Net Korea | Local Language | News | Dec. 12, 2025 | UndeterminedTech Development/Adoption

LG Electronics, in collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, has developed a generative AI-based high-performance computing device (HPC) for vehicles, advancing the AI-centered vehicle (AIDV) era. This new technology, called the “AI Cabin Platform,” will be revealed to automaker customers for the first time at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, starting January 6. The AI Cabin Platform integrates various open-source generative AI models, including vision-language models, large language models, and image-generation models, to enhance in-vehicle infotainment and create a new experience for occupants.

The AI Cabin Platform is powered by Qualcomm’s “Snapdragon Cockpit Elite,” which enables all AI computations to be processed locally within the vehicle. This local processing ensures faster, more reliable operation and improved security by eliminating the need for communication with external AI servers, thereby reducing the risk of data leaks. The platform uses interior and exterior cameras to analyze the vehicle’s surroundings and occupant conditions, providing context-appropriate guidance and customized images.

Earlier, at CES 2025, LG and Qualcomm showcased an HPC platform integrating infotainment and advanced driver-assistance systems using Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Ride Flex system-on-chip, recognized for its cost and performance benefits. Eun Seok-hyun, LG Electronics’ Vice President and head of the VS Business Division, emphasized the company’s commitment to leading the transition from software-defined vehicles (SDV) to AI-centered vehicles (AIDV) through strengthened global partnerships.

Korea Herald | English | News | Dec. 12, 2025 | Shifting Geopolitical Alliances

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi are planning a summit in mid-January in Nara, Japan. The talks are expected to take place around January 13-14, with the historic Todaiji Temple in Nara considered a possible venue. Nara Prefecture is Takaichi's home region.

This summit would be Lee's second visit to Japan during his tenure, following a trip to Tokyo in August where he met with Takaichi's predecessor. The leaders aim to maintain positive momentum in bilateral relations through ongoing "shuttle diplomacy," involving reciprocal visits.

Despite efforts to promote future-oriented cooperation, tensions persist due to territorial disputes. Lee's office recently reaffirmed South Korea's sovereignty over the Dokdo islets, rejecting Takaichi's renewed territorial claims. The summit will continue to address both cooperation and historical and territorial issues between the two nations.

꿈의 에너지 '인공태양' 연구시설 나주 최종 확정…'글로벌 핵융합 에너지 선도도시' 도약

ET News | Local Language | News | Dec. 12, 2025 | UndeterminedEnergy Prices

Naju City in Jeollanam-do has been officially selected as the site for South Korea's national artificial sun research facility, a core project aimed at advancing nuclear fusion technology. The facility, regarded as a breakthrough energy source that is infinite, clean, and safe, aligns with the country’s goal to become an energy self-reliant nation. The final decision followed the dismissal of an objection from Jeonbuk Province and confirmed Naju’s status after a national competition led by the Ministry of Science and ICT.

Naju was rated "very excellent" by the National Research Foundation of Korea for its optimal conditions, including safety from natural disasters, stable granite-based geography without earthquakes, and strong research infrastructure linked to Korea University of Energy and Technology (KENTECH) and Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST). The city's strategic location also offers convenient transportation access via KTX Naju Station and Muan International Airport.

Key to Naju’s successful bid was broad community support, including 120,000 local signatures, active promotion committees, and backing from regional lawmakers. Since early administrative efforts, Naju secured a 49.5 billion won project related to superconducting conductor testing for fusion reactors, reinforcing its leadership in fusion research infrastructure. Collaborative efforts involved government, industry, academia, and research institutions to elevate the artificial sun research facility as a national priority.

The facility, with a planned investment around 1.2 trillion won, is slated for construction starting in 2027 and completion by 2036 near the Naju Energy National Industrial Complex. It is expected to spur significant economic and industrial growth, attracting about 300 companies, creating 2,000 specialized research jobs, over 10,000 total jobs, and generating economic benefits exceeding 10 trillion won. Naju plans to expedite follow-up actions, including feasibility studies and formal agreements with government entities, to support the project’s development and elevate the city as a global leader in fusion energy.