#South Korea #Seoul #SK Networks #Upstage #AI WAVE

SK Networks Hosts AI WAVE 2025

On September 17, 2025, SK Networks successfully held its annual event, AI WAVE 2025, at the Wavehill venue in Walkerhill Hotel & Resort, Seoul. This event continues the company's commitment to enhancing the artificial intelligence ecosystem in South Korea. Taking the theme 'Pitch the Future and Connect the Dots', the event gathered numerous leading AI startups and prominent investors to facilitate collaboration and innovation.

During the event, notable presentations were made regarding SK Networks' AI investment portfolio, which includes key companies like Upstage and PhnyX Lab. Upstage, in particular, was highlighted as the sole startup selected for the government-led Independent AI Foundation Model initiative, a crucial program to enhance AI research and application in Korea.

The event featured a keynote speech by Sunghwan Choi, President and COO of SK Networks. In his address, Choi emphasized the importance of agility and innovation in our rapidly evolving tech landscape, noting that it’s vital for companies to identify growth opportunities through strategic partnerships and information sharing. He stated, "By showcasing our AI investment portfolio built since 2020, we aim to foster an ecosystem where technology, capital, and vision converge."

Apart from the presentations, a panel discussion titled 'The Future of Sovereign AI' took place, featuring Choi and Sung Kim, CEO of Upstage. The discussion focused on defining Sovereign AI and its role in maintaining digital sovereignty. Choi stressed the need for Korea to develop its own AI ecosystem, which he believes can be achieved through strong public-private partnerships and government-led initiatives.

Kim echoed these sentiments, pointing out that Korea has the potential to lead in specialized, industry-specific AI models that will differentiate its offerings from global giants. He formed part of the K-AI team, which plans to create practical AI models tailored to the nuances of the Korean market.

In addition to the panel discussions, various innovative AI technologies were on display during the event. Startups presented cutting-edge solutions such as advertising automation and AI-driven lending platforms, which were well-received by attendees. For instance, PhnyX Lab introduced its generative AI solutions tailored for the pharmaceutical sector, while Upstage showcased its capabilities in enterprise-level AI systems.

Furthermore, the event fostered an environment for interaction among industry leaders, investors, and startup founders to discuss smart investment strategies in AI. The discussions aimed to highlight various perspectives surrounding investment in emerging technologies, shared by industry veterans and startup founders.

Looking ahead, SK Networks plans to continue its initiatives like AI WAVE to strengthen ties with startups and investors, aiming to cultivate mutual growth and advancement in the AI sector. With a vision to transform into a leading AI-focused enterprise, SK Networks is dedicated to enhancing its operational models and investment avenues.

As mentioned by Sang Eun Shin, Head of AI Growth at SK Networks, "AI WAVE 2025 was intended not just as a corporate briefing but as a substantial platform for meaningful exchanges among stakeholders. We are committed to strengthening our internal capabilities and expanding our global network to drive innovation and broaden our business portfolio."

The successful hosting of this event reaffirms SK Networks' role as a key player in the AI landscape, dedicated to propelling technological advancements and establishing robust connections within the industry.