Particle.news
Download on the App Store

SK Networks Elevates Sovereign AI Agenda at AI WAVE 2025 in Seoul

The company used the forum to push tailored national models backed by a 25 billion won stake in Upstage.

Overview

  • SK Networks hosted the second AI WAVE on Sept. 17 at Walkerhill Hotel in Seoul, convening over 100 founders, investors and industry leaders.
  • The company unveiled its AI investment portfolio built since 2020, highlighting vertical approaches such as enterprise LLMs and pharma-focused generative tools.
  • Upstage, the only startup chosen for South Korea’s government-led foundation model project, presented its enterprise LLM work as SK Networks confirmed a 25 billion won ($19 million) investment.
  • PhnyX Lab showcased Korea’s first generative AI solution specialized for pharmaceuticals, while SK NetworksU.S. arm introduced fintech startups including AI-powered lending platforms.
  • HF0 supported the event, with investor Dan Morse outlining the fund’s portfolio, as SK Networks called for bold government funding, public–private cooperation and pledged to continue AI WAVE as a networking platform.