South Korea’s Plan to Build a Global AI & Semiconductor Powerhouse by 2026

Translation resultPlan to build an advanced science research cluster centered on AI, semiconductors and biotechLee Jae-jun, the Democratic Party candidate for mayor of Suwon, announced on the 26th that he will transform Suwon into an advanced science research city that attracts global core technologies—semiconductors, artificial intelligence and biotechnology—and create high-quality jobs and an industrial base that improve residents’ lives.Lee unveiled the “Global Advanced Science Research City, Suwon” vision at a policy briefing at his campaign office in Gucheon-dong, Paldal District. The plan emphasizes building an industrial ecosystem that brings together advanced firms, young talent and international researchers.He proposed a strategy of “research in Suwon, manufacturing in other regions,” positioning Suwon as a hub for research, design, testing and startups while linking manufacturing to other areas. To support that, Lee outlined plans for an AI-, semiconductor- and biotech-based research cluster. The city would concentrate on future strategic industries—physical AI, memory and non-memory semiconductors, and healthcare—and develop an ecosystem that helps not only large corporations but also their suppliers and small and medium-sized enterprises grow.“A city where only big corporations grow is not sustainable,” Lee said. “We will build a robust advanced-science cluster where SMEs, startups and young talent can grow together.”He also proposed new spaces to attract high-tech firms, saying he will expand Suwon’s research base by linking the Suwon Free Economic Zone with Tap-dong Innovation Valley, the Suwon R&D Science Park, North Suwon Technovalley and Uman Technovalley. On the Free Economic Zone designation, he said the city has prepared infrastructure so companies can invest and operate immediately and pledged to push for final designation.For the site of the relocated Suwon Air Base, Lee proposed converting it into a future-industry hub centered on defense, under the concept of a “K-Defense Smartpolis.” He framed the long-running air base relocation debate as an opportunity to reshape the city’s spatial layout and industrial map.Lee also promised measures to support young people and startups. He said he will expand the Suwon Saebit Fund during his term so young entrepreneurs, researchers and startups can launch without heavy financial burdens. He plans to build a startup ecosystem in partnership with local universities—Sungkyunkwan University, Ajou University, Kyung Hee University and Kyonggi University—so students, professors and researchers can grow together.He proposed institutionalizing a Suwon-style global startup festival to connect Samsung Electronics with local SMEs and startups. Coupled with a plan to attract top foreign educational institutions and high-tech companies, the goal is to create a city where businesses, talent and families can settle and thrive.“Suwon is not a city for administrative rehearsal; it is a city of action,” Lee said. “Over the past four years, I have drawn and implemented Suwon’s economic roadmap. Now I will complete it with results.” He added, “I started this, and I will take responsibility through to the end to build a city that citizens can be proud of.”