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South Korea’s artificial intelligence (AI) sector has started to enter the Middle Eastern market by providing an “industrial package” that extends beyond just delivering individual technologies. This represents the first instance of exporting what is known as an “AI full stack” combination, including AI chips, specialized industry models, and cloud infrastructure.

The Ministry of Science and ICT along with the Korea AI Software Industry Association stated on the 2nd that they have entered into an “AI Full Stack Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)” in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, on the 1st. The partnership includes Aramco Digital and seven local AI firms. Aramco Digital serves as a key subsidiary of Saudi Aramco, the world’s leading energy company, and oversees its digital transformation efforts.

The standout aspect of this partnership is its “consortium-style approach” instead of individual company involvement. The Korean side assigned different responsibilities to AI chip companies (Rebellions, FuriosaAI), AI model creators specialized in particular industries (NC AI, Upstage, LG AI Research), LLM operation and service management (Uracle), and cloud and AI infrastructure providers (Megazone Cloud).

Aramco Digital will initially recognize promising AI applications within Saudi Arabia’s energy and manufacturing industries. The Korean group will subsequently offer tailored solutions, enhancing semiconductors, models, and platforms as needed. The objective is to collaboratively create business strategies that go beyond basic Proof of Concept (PoC) and are implemented at real-world industrial locations.

The Ministry of Science and ICT mentioned, “This Memorandum of Understanding will create more chances for South Korean firms to be involved in implementing AI within Saudi Arabia’s energy and industrial sectors.” The administration intends to leverage this partnership as a foundation to demonstrate the combined strength of South Korea’s AI sector in the Middle Eastern region and ultimately position it as a benchmark model for worldwide growth.

Deputy Minister Ryu Je-myung from the Ministry of Science and ICT stated, “International AI assessment organizations have recently placed South Korea in a clear third position globally, indicating remarkable global attention towards K-AI. This collaboration will act as a crucial milestone, demonstrating the strength of the ‘Korean-style AI full stack’ in the international market and facilitating real export results that go beyond individual company efforts.”