Seoul: South Korea's industry minister announced plans to promote cooling equipment for data centers as a new export engine in response to the increasing demand for AI infrastructure.According to Yonhap News Agency, Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun made the announcement during a visit to LG Electronics Inc.'s chiller production line in Pyeongtaek. Chillers are critical in preventing overheating in data centers by circulating water through pipes. The visit underscores the importance of cooling solutions amid the rising energy consumption caused by the growing popularity of generative AI platforms, such as ChatGPT.Ahn highlighted that South Korea has sustained growth in outbound shipments for 14 consecutive months through November. However, he emphasized the need to foster new export engines, particularly AI-related products, to maintain this momentum. Data centers serve as crucial infrastructure for the AI industry, and the ministry is actively supporting the development of AI chips, electronic equipment, an d cooling systems as potential next-generation export engines.To further aid these efforts, the government will provide 350 billion won (US$250 million) in trade insurance for the export of cooling equipment. Additionally, the government plans to offer further assistance, including finding new buyers for these products. South Korea's exports of cooling equipment, especially those used in data centers, are expected to reach $2.6 billion in 2024, an increase from $2.4 billion in 2023. Between January and October this year, the exports amounted to $2.2 billion.
- October 12, 2026
