Kakao to work with scholars on AI research

Kakao, operator of Korea’s top messaging app, said Monday it has joined forces with scholars to develop artificial intelligence technology as part of a broader effort to tap deeper into the prospective market.

Under an agreement with Seoul National University, the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology and Asan Medical Center, Kakao will develop core AI technology such as deep learning.

Kakao said it will work with leading AI experts to acquire seven AI technologies such as utilizing big data and helping doctors diagnose various diseases.

IBM’s AI-powered system is the leader in the field, with its system designed to assist doctors to make more informed treatment decisions by analyzing a patient’s medical information against a vast array of data and expertise.

Such an approach can provide greater evidence-based treatment options.

“The goal is to develop AI technology that will eventually help the livelihoods of the people,” said Kim Byeong-hak, a Kakao official in charge of the project.

Kakao is one of many global internet giants including Google, Amazon and IBM trying to acquire core AI technologies like machine learning, automatic translation, self-driving cars and smart robotics.

In an effort to catch up with other global powerhouses, Kakao set up a task force earlier this year. YONHAP