South Korea Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yun-cheol (L) listens to an explanation about robots during a visit to an innovative AI company in Seoul, South Korea, 27 February 2026. Photo by YONHAP / EPA
South Korea’s internet security agency has launched a project to develop security standards and industry-specific protection models for physical artificial intelligence, as concerns grow over cyberattacks that could cause real-world damage in industrial settings.
The Korea Internet & Security Agency, or KISA, said Monday it will accept bids through April 21 for the project, titled Development of Physical AI Security Standards and Industry Expansion Security Models.
The initiative comes as South Korea steps up investment in physical AI, a field that applies artificial intelligence to machines and systems operating in real-world environments. Unlike conventional cyberattacks that mainly target data, attacks on physical AI systems could trigger equipment malfunctions, production shutdowns and other physical damage, officials said.
A KISA official said the agency is seeking to create practical security guidelines that companies can use during product development and operation to help prevent such risks.
The project is scheduled to run through mid-December after a contractor is selected. Its goal is to establish common security standards for what officials described as a Korean model for physical AI and to build a foundation for responding to emerging threats.
KISA said it plans to review domestic and international legal and regulatory trends related to AI security and convene a working group of experts from industry, academia and research institutes to identify technical and policy requirements.
The agency also plans to develop integrated security models that address both advanced AI threats and potential physical harm.
In addition to common standards, KISA said it will create customized security models for major industries including manufacturing, healthcare and mobility, based on field surveys and interviews with experts.
The agency said it plans to produce shared security guidelines along with five industry-specific standards and practical manuals that companies can apply across the planning, design and operation stages of physical AI products and services.
KISA said it expects the effort to strengthen the global competitiveness of South Korean companies while helping ensure that physical AI-based services are safer and more reliable for the public.
— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI
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Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260407010002121
