OpenAI has announced plans to establish its first office in Seoul, South Korea, in response to the growing demand for its ChatGPT service in the country. The company has officially set up a local entity and has already started hiring staff to support operations and strengthen partnerships in the region.

South Korea ranks as the second-largest market for paid ChatGPT users, trailing only the United States. Recognizing this surge in adoption, OpenAI sees South Korea as a strategic location for expanding its presence and influence in the global AI space.

The company highlighted South Korea’s robust AI ecosystem as a key factor in the decision. “Korea’s full-stack AI environment — from hardware and software to a tech-savvy population — makes it one of the most promising places in the world for impactful AI development,” said Jason Kwon, OpenAI’s Chief Strategy Officer.

Earlier this year, OpenAI also announced a collaboration with South Korean tech firm Kakao to develop AI-based tools and applications tailored to the local market.

During his visit to Seoul, Jason Kwon is scheduled to meet with members of both the ruling People Power Party and the opposition Democratic Party to discuss potential cooperation and the future of AI in the country.

Further details about OpenAI’s expansion in South Korea are expected to be released in the coming months.