Daegu Positions Itself as AI Innovation Hub with Expanded Tech Expo
The Future Innovation Tech Expo 2025 (FIX 2025) in Daegu is reportedly showcasing the city’s strategic push to integrate artificial intelligence across its industrial base, with organizers noting increased participation and expanded international presence. According to reports, the event has attracted 585 companies, up from 544 in 2024, with approximately 20% representing international exhibitors.
Government Backing Accelerates AI Transformation Timeline
The exhibition follows the central government’s approval of the Regional AX Innovation Technology Development Project, which sources indicate will accelerate AI research and pilot programs across key sectors including mobility, robotics, and semiconductors. Acting Mayor Jeong-gi Kim stated that the event “serves as the catalyst for innovation and the renewed growth of Daegu’s industrial ecosystem,” with high expectations for AI-driven transformation among local industries.
Mobility Sector Showcases Convergence with Semiconductor Technologies
The Daegu International Future Mobility & Auto Tech (DIFA) section demonstrates how electrification, AI, and automation are reshaping transport systems, according to exhibition organizers. Major automakers and suppliers including Hyundai Motor, GM Korea, BYD, Porsche, and Volkswagen are participating, with showcases covering Urban Air Mobility (UAM), electric and hydrogen vehicles, and autonomous driving. Analysts suggest these displays illustrate how mobility and semiconductor ecosystems are increasingly converging under AI transformation frameworks, reflecting broader market trends in technology integration.
Robotics Expansion Beyond Traditional Manufacturing Applications
The robotics section (ROBEX) highlights Korea’s extension of robotics applications from factories into public and consumer spaces. Notable displays include AeiRobot’s Alice, described as Korea’s first humanoid developed for shipbuilding and construction, with company co-founder Professor Jae Kwon Han scheduled to speak about practical deployment in hazardous environments. The Korea Institute for Robot Industry Advancement (KIRIA) will display three humanoid prototypes in a scaled-down version of the national robot test field, part of Korea’s effort to standardize safety and certification amid industry developments in automation.
Sovereign AI Initiative Strengthens Local Technology Infrastructure
The ITCE section functions as the digital backbone of the event, covering Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Blockchain (ABB), alongside ICT, cybersecurity, semiconductors, and metaverse applications. Within the National AI Pavilion, several firms are showcasing models and platforms developed independently from foreign providers, representing what analysts describe as a “sovereign AI” approach intended to strengthen local control over data and algorithms. This development aligns with related innovations in computing infrastructure worldwide.
Startup Ecosystem Connects Innovation with Corporate Partnerships
The Start-Up Arena combines two programs—Play & Plug Expo Korea and the Global Innovator Festa (GIF)—to link early-stage companies with large corporations and investors. Through cooperation with KOTRA, organizers expect 53 verified international buyers from the U.S., Canada, Germany, and Japan, significantly up from 29 in 2024. A Large Corporation Purchase Consultation Meeting will include HD Hyundai, Hanwha, SK hynix, LG Energy Solution, and POSCO DX, offering startups direct procurement channels. This expanded support system comes as recent technology developments in energy storage create new opportunities for collaboration.
Comprehensive Approach to Technology Commercialization
The expo’s structure reportedly creates pathways from university research to commercialization through open hackathons, idea pitches, and student competitions. This comprehensive approach to fostering innovation comes amid global industry developments in technology research and development. Meanwhile, related innovations in other sectors demonstrate the expanding applications of advanced technologies across industries.
This article aggregates information from publicly available sources. All trademarks and copyrights belong to their respective owners.
Note: Featured image is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent any specific product, service, or entity mentioned in this article.