South Korea Prioritizes AI Integration to Safeguard Basic Medical Rights
South Korea is embarking on a national strategy to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into its healthcare system, with a primary focus on guaranteeing equitable access to essential medical services. The initiative, spearheaded by the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy Committee and involving key ministries like the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Science and ICT, aims to leverage AI to address challenges in healthcare delivery and ensure all citizens have access to high-quality care.
The effort comes as South Korea prepares for the enforcement of its new AI Basic Act, which classifies healthcare AI as “high-impact” beginning . This designation necessitates stringent requirements for transparency, risk management, and human oversight in the development and deployment of AI-powered medical technologies. The Act also allows for potential fines of up to KRW 30 million (approximately USD 23,000) for non-compliance.
The core objective of the “AI basic medical care” strategy is to establish a system where AI enhances, rather than replaces, essential medical services. This includes creating a network where individuals can receive necessary care “anytime, anywhere,” according to committee statements. The plan emphasizes a localized, essential, and publicly accessible medical infrastructure, aiming to eliminate disparities in healthcare access.
A key component of the strategy involves the development of a robust “health and medical AI foundation model.” This foundational infrastructure will serve as a base for building and deploying a range of AI applications in healthcare. Specific plans include the establishment and implementation of AI-based collaborative medical treatment systems and an enhanced emergency medical system. The committee also intends to address regulatory hurdles that may impede the adoption of AI in the medical field – a process referred to as “AX” (AI conversion).
The initiative recognizes the unique strengths of South Korea’s healthcare landscape. Vice Chairman of the Committee, Lim Moon-young, highlighted the nation’s combination of “world-class medical infrastructure and cutting-edge AI capabilities.” He stated that “AI basic medical care will be one of several key foundations to complete the ‘AI basic society.’” This suggests a broader vision of integrating AI across various sectors to improve the quality of life for all citizens.
The committee is fostering a collaborative approach, encouraging the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Science and ICT to work in unison. This unified front aims to overcome inter-ministerial divisions and ensure a cohesive and successful implementation of the AI-driven medical system. The emphasis on collaboration extends beyond government agencies, with plans to engage civic groups and host policy seminars to gather input and address potential concerns.
The timing of this initiative is particularly noteworthy. As noted by committee members, the strategy is being expedited in response to concerns about potential polarization in the AI era, echoing recent discussions led by President Lee Jae-myung. This suggests a proactive approach to mitigating potential societal impacts of AI and ensuring that its benefits are shared equitably.
The move towards AI integration in healthcare is occurring against a backdrop of significant growth in the medical AI market. Current estimates project the diagnostics market alone to expand from USD 0.35 billion to USD 2.79 billion by 2035, demonstrating the substantial economic potential of this technology. However, the committee’s focus remains firmly on the societal benefits – ensuring access to quality healthcare for all citizens.
While the specific details of the AI applications are still being developed, the overarching goal is clear: to create a more efficient, accessible, and equitable healthcare system powered by the latest advancements in artificial intelligence. The success of this strategy will likely serve as a model for other nations seeking to harness the transformative potential of AI in healthcare.
The implementation of the AI Basic Act will require healthcare providers, medical technology companies, and startups to prioritize user notices, documentation of training data, and ongoing lifecycle monitoring of AI systems. This emphasis on responsible AI development and deployment underscores South Korea’s commitment to ethical considerations alongside technological innovation.
