South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT selected 7 universities — including Korea University, Yonsei University, Sungkyunkwan University, and Sogang University — to transform from software-centred to AI-centred university programmes in 2026. Each selected institution receives up to 24 billion won (approximately USD 17 million) over 8 years (~3 billion won per year), replacing the previous software-centred university programme.
The selection follows a competitive ministry process with accountability mechanisms: universities must meet AI transformation targets across curriculum redesign, faculty development, industry partnerships, and graduate outcomes. The 8-year funding commitment of up to 24 billion won per institution represents binding government investment tied to specific programme requirements — making the AI education commitment both substantial and conditional on delivery.
KAIST also launched Korea’s first standalone AI college in 2026 with 300 students per year (100 undergraduate, 200 graduate), covering AI computing, AI systems/hardware, AI applications, and AI ethics/policy/governance. Similar colleges are planned at GIST, UNIST, and DGIST from 2027.
Who it affects: Students at 7 selected universities transitioning to AI-centred programmes, faculty who must redesign curricula, and the broader higher education sector observing the transformation model. The KAIST AI College adds 300 annual graduates with AI expertise including an ethics/governance specialisation.
What is notably missing: The programme targets 7 universities — the broader university sector is not mandated to transform. AI literacy for the general student population (across all universities) depends on separate government programmes.