South Korean companies have demonstrated particular strength in user authentication technologies within AI-driven hacking detection and prevention systems. (Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons/CCL)
SEOUL, Nov. 25 (Korea Bizwire) – South Korea has solidified its position as the world’s third-largest filer of artificial intelligence (AI) security technology patents, trailing only the United States and China, according to a report released by the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) on Sunday.
In 2021, South Korea filed 1,492 AI security technology patents, a staggering 40-fold increase from just 37 in 2012. The nation’s average annual growth rate in this field stands at 51%, underscoring the rapid advancement of its AI security technologies.
Since surpassing Japan in 2017, South Korea has widened its lead year after year. Among global firms, Samsung Electronics emerged as the only non-American company to rank in the top 10 for AI security patent filings, placing sixth. The remaining nine spots were dominated by U.S. firms, including IBM, Microsoft, and Strong Force.
South Korean companies have demonstrated particular strength in user authentication technologies within AI-driven hacking detection and prevention systems. Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics secured first and sixth place, respectively, in global patent filings for user authentication technologies.
Globally, corporations account for the lion’s share (78.5%) of AI security patent filings. In South Korea, however, universities and public institutions contribute a notable 26% of such filings, compared to 68% by corporations, reflecting a relatively higher involvement of academic and public sectors.
“AI security technologies are indispensable in safeguarding national security and everyday life in an era where AI integration and digital transformation have become routine,” said Jeon Beom-jae, director of the AI and Big Data Examination Division at KIPO. He emphasized the agency’s commitment to supporting domestic companies in securing critical patents by providing timely patent analysis.
With its rapid growth in AI security innovations, South Korea is well-positioned to strengthen its global competitiveness in this crucial technological domain.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
