South Korea is set to construct the globe’s most extensive artificial intelligence data centre in the Jeollanam-do Province, aiming to boost its position in the international tech arena. This ambitious initiative signifies the country’s commitment to advancing AI infrastructure and supporting its burgeoning technology sector.
This project builds upon South Korea’s decade-long evolution into a technological hub, complementing the strides made by leading companies like Samsung and LG in various tech domains. Previously, the focus was on consumer electronics and automotive industries, but the current endeavor highlights a shift towards foundational AI infrastructure.
Project Leadership and Investment
Led by Fir Hills, a branch of California’s Stock Farm Road, Inc (SFR), the data centre’s construction is slated to begin in winter 2025. The initial investment surpasses $10 billion, with expectations of annual revenues reaching $3.5 billion upon operation.
“This is more than just a technological milestone; it’s a strategic leap forward for Korea’s global technological leadership,” said Dr Amin Badr-El-Din.
“We are incredibly proud to partner with Stock Farm Road and the Jeollanam-do government to build this crucial infrastructure, creating an unprecedented opportunity to build the foundation for next-generation AI,”
Cutting-edge Facilities and Capabilities
Upon completion in 2028, the centre will offer a 3-gigawatt capacity, integrating advanced cooling systems, high-bandwidth fibre connectivity, and robust energy load management. These features are tailored to support next-generation AI applications and ensure operational resilience.
Economic and Global Impacts
The facility is projected to generate over 10,000 jobs across sectors such as energy storage, renewable production, equipment manufacturing, and R&D. Additionally, SFR plans to expand AI infrastructure partnerships internationally, enhancing South Korea’s stature in the global market.
“Having witnessed firsthand the immense technological capabilities of large Asian enterprises, I recognise the potential of this project to elevate Korea and the region to a new level of technological advancement and economic prosperity,” commented Koo.
“This data centre is not merely an infrastructure project, but the launchpad for a new digital industrial revolution.”
The development of South Korea’s largest AI data centre signifies a pivotal enhancement of its technological infrastructure, likely attracting further investments and fostering innovation within the AI sector. By leveraging state-of-the-art facilities and strategic partnerships, the project is poised to significantly contribute to both the national economy and the global AI landscape.
