From Artificial Intelligence to Digital Infrastructure: IT Park Uzbekistan’s Visit to the Republic of Korea

The programme addressed artificial intelligence, the development of national data infrastructure, digital government, specialist training, and the expansion of international cooperation in the information technology sector.

Global AI & Digital Summit 2026: International Dialogue on AI Development

During the visit, the IT Park Uzbekistan delegation attended the Global AI & Digital Summit 2026, organized by the World Bank Group in collaboration with government institutions of the Republic of Korea.

The summit served as a platform for discussions on artificial intelligence and digital transformation. Participation in the event provided an opportunity to examine international approaches to technology adoption and discuss topics relevant to the further development of Uzbekistan’s IT ecosystem.

Cooperation with the Ministry of Science and ICT of the Republic of Korea

One of the key meetings during the visit was conducted with the leadership of the Ministry of Science and ICT of the Republic of Korea (MSIT). The discussions covered opportunities to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital government, IT education, and scientific research.

The Uzbek side outlined plans for training young specialists, enhancing AI competencies, establishing an Artificial Intelligence Institute at New Uzbekistan University, and developing a research centre.

The Korean side expressed interest in strengthening cooperation between universities and research institutions, sharing expertise on the application of AI in public administration, improving digital public services, and training cybersecurity specialists.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue dialogue in the identified areas and explore opportunities for practical cooperation.

NIA: Exchanging Expertise on the Development of a National Data Platform

An important part of the visit was a meeting with the leadership of the National Information Society Agency of the Republic of Korea (NIA), focused on establishing a national data platform in Uzbekistan and advancing cooperation in artificial intelligence.

The discussions addressed Korea’s experience in developing digital infrastructure, managing government data, and building datasets for training AI models.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue exchanging expertise, including through specialized online seminars focused on the development of Uzbekistan’s national data platform and the study of NIA’s practices.

World Bank: Digital Inclusion and Human Capital Development

During the visit, the delegation held discussions with representatives of the World Bank on the implementation of the Digital Inclusion in Uzbekistan project, which seeks to increase access to digital technologies, enhance digital skills, and generate new employment opportunities.

Special focus was placed on the outcomes of initiatives aimed at soft skills development and the global promotion of Uzbekistan’s IT sector, as well as potential ways to improve project execution and strengthen expert collaboration.

Seoul National University: Research and Technological Innovation

The visit also included a meeting with officials from Seoul National University (SNU), one of the top research universities in the Republic of Korea.

The university is renowned for its expertise in science and engineering, artificial intelligence, computer science, biotechnology, semiconductors, and other advanced technological fields.

SNU’s research and innovation environment comprises 64 government-funded research centres, a dedicated startup support unit, and SNU Technology Holdings, an investment firm that supports university-affiliated startups.

The university also partners with government bodies, research organizations, corporations, and international universities. Its industry–academia cooperation frameworks facilitate joint research, the commercialization of research results, and technology transfer.

SNU’s experience is of interest for enhancing Uzbekistan’s research capabilities, training highly skilled professionals, and promoting stronger links between academia and technology entrepreneurship.

Prospects for Further Cooperation

IT Park Uzbekistan’s visit to the Republic of Korea offered an opportunity to explore new avenues for international collaboration in information technology and artificial intelligence.

Discussions with Korean government agencies, the World Bank, and academic representatives helped identify potential areas for future knowledge exchange in AI, national data infrastructure, digital government, and specialist training.

Ongoing cooperation in these areas can support the growth of Uzbekistan’s IT ecosystem, strengthen international partnerships, and expand opportunities for adopting advanced technological solutions.