[E-Daily Reporter Lee So-Hyun ] “Kakao AI Mott,” a Kakao Group initiative to foster local artificial intelligence (AI) talent and companies ( Kakao(035720)), is hosting a large-scale technology conference in Busan. The event aims to revitalize the local AI ecosystem by sharing Kakao Group’s AI Transformation (AX) case studies and global AI technology trends, while providing a platform for local entrepreneurs, developers, and students to network.

Kakao announced on the 1st that Kakao AI Mott will host the “Kakao AI Mott Summit 26” on the 29th at the Busan Port International Exhibition and Convention Center (BPEX).

The event is open to approximately 800 participants, including entrepreneurs, startup representatives, students, and developers. Registration is free and available on the Kakao AI Mott website until the 6th.

Kakao AI Mott is a private collaborative initiative that combines the Kakao Group’s technology and business infrastructure with the research and technical capabilities of the four major science and technology institutes—the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), and the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST)—to support the cultivation of local AI talent, entrepreneurship, and corporate growth.

The theme of this conference is “Toward the Future: A Voyage of Possibilities.” It embodies the idea that regional AI talent and innovative companies can expand their growth potential through technological exchange. Speakers will include technical professionals from Kakao and its affiliates, technology experts from global companies, local entrepreneurs, and academic experts.

The keynote session will introduce the vision, business direction, and AI infrastructure of Kakao AI Sail. Each session will feature presentations on the Kakao Group’s AX strategy, case studies of AI transformation across various industries, a panel discussion with local entrepreneurs, and introductions to solutions from global technology partners.

Booths from global partners will also be set up on-site. Participants will be able to experience the latest AI technologies and solutions firsthand and engage in business consultations. Kakao expects that through exchanges with domestic and international technology partners, participants will gain concrete insights on how to apply AI technology to their startup and research activities.

On the day of the event, “Ralphton,” an AI agent hackathon for aspiring entrepreneurs, will also take place. Ralphton is an immersive startup program that uses Agent AI to rapidly validate ideas and build a demo-ready product in just one day. Students from the four major science and technology institutes and local talent will participate to test the feasibility of actual product development and commercialization.

Kim Young-deok, Head of Kakao’s AI Mot Center, stated, “This conference is an opportunity for AI technology experts, talent, and industry stakeholders to gather in Busan and join forces to revitalize the local AI ecosystem.” He added, “Building on Kakao’s technological capabilities and business experience, as well as the research capabilities of the four major science and technology institutes, we will connect insights from domestic and international technology partners to revitalize the local AI ecosystem while helping local companies expand into the global market.”