New Korea-based Center to Promote Innovation, Job Creation and Inclusive Digital Growth
SEOUL, December 1, 2025 — The World Bank Group (WBG), in partnership with the Republic of Korea, today launched the Korea-WBG Global Digital Knowledge Center, a cutting-edge knowledge hub to accelerate digital transformation and harness the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for inclusive growth and job creation.
“The World Bank’s partnership with Korea through this center represents a major step in supporting countries on their digital and AI transformation journeys, helping them grow their economies and create more jobs,” said Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, the World Bank’s Vice President for East Asia and Pacific. “Combining Korea's proven digital expertise with the WBG's global network and knowledge, we are creating a platform that will drive tangible impact for governments, businesses, and citizens alike.”
Digitalization, artificial intelligence, and the data revolution are key to sustainable growth and economic resilience. Yet, today nearly one-third of the world remains offline, with most data infrastructure concentrated in a few developed countries, and fewer than 1% of people in low-income countries using generative AI tools. Drawing on Korea’s global leadership in digital innovation, the new center aims to bring digital opportunities to communities everywhere, focusing on sustainable, inclusive solutions.
“The digital industry has been a critical engine that helped Korea avoid the middle-income trap during its rapid development journey,” said Ji-young Choi, Deputy Minister for International Affairs at the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Korea. “By sharing Korea’s experience through the World Bank, we hope to support countries in crafting their own successful digital transformation stories.”
Hosted at the World Bank, the center will work closely with Korea’s top digital agencies and firms to deliver impactful, locally tailored solutions. It will offer cutting-edge knowledge products, capacity-building programs, and tailored support for digital initiatives. It will also foster collaboration among governments, the private sector, academia, and civil society, creating an ecosystem for innovation, knowledge exchange, and collective action.
“This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our joint mission to close the digital divide and empower countries with transformative technology,” said Sangbu Kim, the World Bank’s Vice President for Digital. “Through innovative research, technical guidance, and targeted investments, the center will equip countries with the tools and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.”
The Center’s work will focus its efforts on three core pillars, with AI at the heart of every initiative. First, it will strengthen digital and data infrastructure to build inclusive, affordable, and trusted digital foundations. Second, it will support governments in delivering inclusive, efficient, and secure digital public services that enhance citizen engagement and transparency. Third, it will promote an inclusive digital economy by fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and new opportunities for women and youth - driving productivity, job creation, and sustainable growth.
The World Bank’s new Digital Center will offer practical tools, analytical reports, technical guidance, and hands-on training, along south-south knowledge exchange, to equip governments and local experts to implement effective digital strategies.
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