Naver Corp. has announced a strategic partnership with Nvidia Corp. to enhance its artificial intelligence infrastructure. This collaboration will kick off with the expansion of Naver's Gak Sejong data center in Sejong, South Korea, where the companies plan to implement Nvidia's DSX platform. The initial phase will add 55 megawatts of capacity by mid-2027, with plans to eventually scale this up to a gigawatt level, enough to support hundreds of thousands of Nvidia's advanced graphic processing units (GPUs).
This expansion is a critical element of Naver's strategy to strengthen its AI capabilities. A gigawatt capacity would significantly increase the current maximum data capacity of the Gak Sejong center, nearly quadrupling it. This upgrade not only demonstrates Naver's commitment to improving its operational capabilities but also positions the company to meet the rising global demand for AI-powered services.
Alongside the data center expansion, Naver will join Nvidia's Nemotron Coalition, which focuses on advancing open models and AI innovation. This involvement will bolster Naver's efforts to refine its proprietary large language model, HyperCLOVA X, further integrating it into the AI ecosystem.
Collaboration Beyond Technology
The partnership goes beyond technical integration. Naver and Nvidia will work together across the entire value chain, from market demand analysis to joint capital ventures. Both firms have expressed their intention to share risks and profits associated with this collaboration, highlighting a mutual commitment that spans various aspects of AI development and deployment.
Additionally, Naver plans to create a "Seoul World Model," utilizing its unique urban street-view data and spatial modeling technology alongside Nvidia's Cosmos world foundation models. This initiative represents a significant move towards developing more immersive and data-rich models that could enhance applications ranging from urban planning to AI-driven navigation systems.
Nvidia's Strategic Visit to South Korea
The announcement coincides with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's visit to South Korea, where he is set to meet with leaders from major conglomerates and engage with researchers in the AI and robotics fields. Huang's itinerary includes a stop at Naver's 1784 building, a facility that serves as a testing ground for the company's technological innovations, including cloud computing, AI, and robotics. This visit highlights the potential for deeper collaboration between Nvidia and South Korea's tech ecosystem, which is increasingly focused on AI advancement.
As Naver and Nvidia embark on this ambitious partnership, the implications for the AI sector in South Korea and beyond could be significant. This collaboration not only aims to enhance Naver's capabilities but also positions both companies to play key roles in shaping the future of AI technologies on a global scale. This venture may set a precedent for how tech companies can work together to accelerate innovation in the evolving AI landscape.
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