The World Bank Group (WBG), in partnership with the Republic of Korea, has unveiled the Korea-WBG Global Digital Knowledge Center, a state-of-the-art hub aimed at accelerating digital transformation and harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) for inclusive growth and job creation. The center seeks to equip countries with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, World Bank Vice President for East Asia and Pacific, highlighted the collaboration’s potential, stating that combining Korea’s digital expertise with the World Bank’s global knowledge network will drive tangible impact for governments, businesses, and citizens alike. The initiative comes at a critical time: nearly one-third of the global population remains offline, and fewer than 1% of people in low-income countries use generative AI tools.
Ji-young Choi, Deputy Minister for International Affairs at Korea’s Ministry of Economy and Finance, emphasized that Korea’s digital industry played a key role in avoiding the middle-income trap during its rapid development. Sharing this expertise through the center, she said, will help other countries chart their own successful digital transformation paths.
Hosted at the World Bank, the center will collaborate with Korea’s top digital agencies and firms to provide tailored solutions, capacity-building programs, and practical knowledge products. It will also foster partnerships among governments, the private sector, academia, and civil society, creating an ecosystem for innovation, knowledge exchange, and joint action.
Sangbu Kim, World Bank Vice President for Digital, underlined the center’s mission to close the digital divide, stating that innovative research, technical guidance, and targeted investments will empower countries to harness technology for development.
The center’s work will focus on three core pillars: strengthening inclusive and trusted digital and data infrastructure, supporting governments in delivering efficient and secure digital public services, and promoting an inclusive digital economy that drives innovation, entrepreneurship, and opportunities for women and youth. Through analytical reports, technical guidance, hands-on training, and south-south knowledge exchange, the center aims to equip governments and local experts with the tools to implement effective digital strategies and foster sustainable, AI-driven growth.
