Washington D.C. – SK Group Chairman Choi Tae-won is calling for closer collaboration between South Korea, the United States, and Japan to navigate what he describes as a pivotal “AI transformation era.” His remarks, delivered at a recent forum in Washington, underscore the growing recognition of artificial intelligence as a defining force shaping the global landscape and the need for coordinated strategies to harness its potential while mitigating its risks.
Choi’s call for trilateral cooperation comes as AI development accelerates, prompting discussions about its implications for economic competitiveness, national security, and societal well-being. He emphasized that the current period of rapid change represents a “structural reality” that impacts the exceptionally survival of nations, necessitating a unified approach to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. The chairman made these statements during the ‘Trans-Pacific Dialogue (TPD)’ hosted by the Choi Jong-hyun Academic Institute on February 20-21, 2026, at the Salamander Hotel in Washington D.C.
The ‘AI Transformation Era’ and the Need for Collaboration
The SK Group chairman framed the current moment as an “AI transformation era,” highlighting the dual nature of the technology. While AI offers the potential for innovative solutions to complex problems, it also carries the risk of significant disruption. According to Choi, the ability to secure AI solutions and maintain a competitive edge hinges on access to substantial capital and resources to manage the immense costs associated with AI infrastructure. Yonhap Infomax reported on his comments, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
A key concern raised by Choi is the potential for energy shortages to impede AI development. He stressed the importance of establishing a stable and environmentally sustainable energy supply to meet the growing power demands of AI infrastructure. This point aligns with broader discussions about the energy intensity of AI and the need for green energy solutions to support its continued growth. The increasing demand for electricity to power AI systems is a growing concern for policymakers and industry leaders alike, with some analysts predicting a significant strain on existing energy grids.
The Trans-Pacific Dialogue: A Platform for Regional Cooperation
The forum where Choi delivered his remarks, the Trans-Pacific Dialogue (TPD), serves as a platform for dialogue and collaboration among high-level officials, academics, and business leaders from the United States, South Korea, and Japan. Established in 2021, the TPD aims to foster cooperation on regional issues, including economic and security challenges. Asia Today reported that the forum brings together a diverse group of stakeholders to explore solutions and build consensus on critical issues facing the Indo-Pacific region.
This year’s TPD focused heavily on the implications of AI, with discussions ranging from infrastructure development to geopolitical considerations. Participants explored the potential for a “new cooperation platform” centered around AI, encompassing technology, energy, and security. Choi’s proposal goes beyond previous suggestions for bilateral economic cooperation, such as a Han-Japan economic cooperation framework, signaling a broader vision for regional collaboration in the age of AI.
Beyond Infrastructure: A ‘Triangular Relationship’ of AI, Energy, and Finance
Choi highlighted the interconnectedness of AI development with energy and financial systems, describing a “triangular relationship” that requires a holistic approach. He noted that the substantial costs associated with AI infrastructure – estimated to reach $5 trillion – necessitate a coordinated strategy involving investment in energy, finance, and environmental sustainability. This perspective underscores the complex interplay of factors that will determine the success of AI initiatives and the need for cross-sectoral collaboration.
The chairman’s emphasis on the financial aspects of AI infrastructure is particularly noteworthy. Securing the necessary funding for AI development will require innovative financing mechanisms and strategic partnerships between governments and the private sector. The scale of investment required is substantial, and countries that can effectively mobilize capital will be better positioned to lead in the AI race.
A Shift in Focus: From Economic Cooperation to AI-Centric Partnerships
Choi’s call for renewed cooperation among South Korea, the United States, and Japan represents a shift in focus from traditional economic partnerships to AI-centric collaborations. He suggested that the three nations should explore new ways to work together, recognizing that AI is now the central driver of technological and economic change. The Seoul Daily reported that Choi believes the future order will be determined by how the three nations cooperate in this new era.
This shift reflects a growing awareness of the strategic importance of AI and the need for countries to align their policies and investments to remain competitive. The United States, South Korea, and Japan are all major players in the AI landscape, and their combined strengths could create a powerful force for innovation and economic growth. However, realizing this potential will require overcoming geopolitical challenges and fostering a shared vision for the future of AI.
Key Takeaways
- AI as a Defining Force: Choi Tae-won identifies the current era as an “AI transformation era,” emphasizing the technology’s potential and risks.
- Trilateral Cooperation: He advocates for closer collaboration between South Korea, the United States, and Japan to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.
- Interconnected Systems: Choi highlights the “triangular relationship” between AI, energy, and finance, stressing the need for a holistic approach to infrastructure development.
- Strategic Investment: He emphasizes the importance of securing substantial capital to invest in AI infrastructure and maintain a competitive edge.
The SK Group chairman’s remarks come at a critical juncture, as governments and businesses around the world grapple with the implications of AI. His call for trilateral cooperation underscores the need for a coordinated global response to ensure that AI benefits all of humanity. The next step will be to translate these calls for cooperation into concrete actions and initiatives, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes innovation and addresses the ethical and societal challenges posed by AI.
Further discussions on this topic are expected at upcoming international forums and bilateral meetings between the three nations. Readers interested in staying informed about developments in AI policy and international cooperation can follow updates from organizations like the OECD and the United Nations. The ongoing dialogue between South Korea, the United States, and Japan will be crucial in shaping the future of AI and its impact on the global order.
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