This research provides a strategic analysis of the advancement of
South Korea’s autonomous manufacturing ecosystem, emphasizing the
transition from digital transformation (DX) to artificial intelligence (AI)
adoption (AX). It diagnoses the limitatio...
This research provides a strategic analysis of the advancement of
South Korea’s autonomous manufacturing ecosystem, emphasizing the
transition from digital transformation (DX) to artificial intelligence (AI)
adoption (AX). It diagnoses the limitations of the current dual-track
policy structure, empirically verifies key success factors in smart manufacturing
adoption, and proposes comprehensive strategies for
integrating the manufacturing and data ecosystems.
The global manufacturing paradigm is shifting, driven by the structural
fragility exposed in global supply chains (GSCs) during the
COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid advancement of AI technology.
Countries are re-evaluating manufacturing as a strategic, national
security-critical industry, leading to reshoring efforts and intense policy
focus on innovation.
South Korea, with its high manufacturing density and early smart
factory diffusion, possesses a favorable foundation for transitioning to
AI-based autonomous manufacturing (AX). However, the actual qualitative
transition is lagging. Despite the diffusion of over 30,000 smart
factories, 75.5% remain at the basic level, and the adoption rate of
AI-based technology across all manufacturers is merely 0.1%. This
delay stems from structural weaknesses, including the lack of in-house
IT expertise and uncertainty surrounding the return on investment
(ROI) for manufacturers, coupled with the systemic fragmentation and
lack of competence within the supplier sector. Therefore, the report
concludes that a holistic, ecosystem-based approach, integrating both
the manufacturing system and data infrastructure, is critical for future
competitiveness.