Oh Sehoon: "Free AI Vouchers for Youth... Immersive Workspaces to Be Established"

Regardless of Income or Qualifications: Discussions Underway with Global AI Companies
Plan to Operate Five "AI Lounges" by 2030
Step-by-Step Customized Education and Internship Opportunities

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon is delivering an inaugural speech at the 40th Seoul Metropolitan City Mayor Inauguration Ceremony held at the Multipurpose Hall of Seoul City Hall on July 1, 2026. Photo by Kang Jin-hyung

The Seoul Metropolitan Government will provide vouchers that allow young people to use generative artificial intelligence (AI) services for free. In addition, the city plans to establish five AI-specialized immersive workspaces near areas where young people live by 2030.

On July 2, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon held a press briefing at Seoul City Hall and announced the "Youth AI Ladder" support plan. The core purpose of the Youth AI Ladder is to provide an equal starting line for AI utilization regardless of economic background, and to help young people grow into core talent in the AI era.

First, any young person in Seoul aged 19 to 39 will be able to use generative AI services free of charge, regardless of income or qualifications, through an AI voucher program. This initiative aims to enable youths to build their skills—whether studying, preparing for employment, starting a business, or pursuing self-development—by accessing the latest AI services without financial burden. To achieve this, the Seoul Metropolitan Government is currently negotiating costs and service terms with leading global AI companies. The final number of vouchers to be distributed will be determined based on the results of these negotiations and demand.

Additionally, the city will create specialized AI immersive workspaces, called "Seoul AI Lounge," close to where young people live. The Seoul AI Lounge will be equipped with high-spec PCs to support advanced tasks such as coding and video production. On-site professional AI coaches will provide guidance, creating an open hub where any young person can access and utilize AI. Starting with the Seoul Metropolitan Library in the second half of this year, the city plans to establish and operate five such locations—including Seoul Youth Centers and university areas—by 2030.

A range of customized AI education programs will also be offered, from basic to practical and advanced training for professional workforce development. Through the "Seoul AI Digital Learning Center," a variety of training packages are provided, from entry-level courses such as document writing and information searching to job-specific curricula based on industry trends. There will also be tailored education programs for socially disadvantaged youth, such as those who are isolated or withdrawn, reflecting their unique needs.

To reduce the financial burden on young people taking official certification exams in AI and data fields, the city will support exam fees and provide congratulatory incentives for those who pass. Graduates who complete AI job training at the Seoul Youth Job Academy will also be offered additional internship opportunities at private companies and public institutions.

Mayor Oh emphasized, "Through the AI Ladder, Seoul will provide everyone with an equal starting point for AI, and become the first city to invest in young people so they can grow as leaders in the AI era."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.