Partnership aims to boost sovereign AI development, modernise casino operations, and establish Korea as a leader in next-generation tourism technology.
Grand Korea Leisure (GKL) has entered a significant joint research and business cooperation agreement with Naver Cloud to advance artificial intelligence (AI) integration across South Korea’s tourism ecosystem. Announced on 30 December, the partnership reinforces national priorities around public-private collaboration and the expansion of sovereign AI capabilities that can compete globally.
Under the agreement, both organisations will focus on four strategic pillars designed to drive industry-wide transformation. These include the co-development of AI-powered tourism services and solutions, specialised technical consulting to support AI adoption, joint training programmes to improve talent development and practical skills, and the implementation of pilot initiatives that demonstrate measurable social and commercial value.
GKL intends to leverage its operational infrastructure to provide a functional testbed for research and experimentation. This will encompass direct access to casino systems, operational environments, and real data derived from its Seven Luck casino properties. Through this controlled trial environment, new AI solutions will be tested, validated, and refined for large-scale deployment.
Naver Cloud will complement these efforts through the provision of technological expertise in cloud computing, data processing, and AI commercialisation strategy. The company will also conduct feasibility assessments, manage on-site solution testing, and support the transition from prototype to market-ready product.
Both companies state that the collaboration is designed to accelerate Korea’s transition toward digital-first tourism at a national level. The initiative aligns closely with government ambitions to foster domestic AI innovation, reduce reliance on foreign platforms, and integrate advanced technology throughout priority economic sectors.
GKL CEO Doo-hyun Yoon described the partnership as a pivotal milestone in Korea’s journey toward modernising tourism infrastructure. He emphasised that the company aims to act as a core driver for the government’s AI policies, stating that the initiative will contribute to “kick-starting the AI transformation of the Korean tourism industry.” Yoon also reiterated GKL’s objective of evolving into a “world-class urban premium tourism platform,” integrating cutting-edge solutions to enhance customer experience, operational efficiency, and global competitiveness.
Naver Cloud echoed these sentiments, noting that the collaboration represents a long-term investment in Korea’s digital leadership. Early-stage pilot projects are scheduled to begin imminently, and both parties intend to release further updates as technological and commercial milestones are achieved.
The agreement ultimately positions GKL and Naver Cloud at the forefront of AI-driven tourism innovation, signalling a new era for South Korea’s travel, entertainment, and hospitality sectors.
