North Korea Embracing Fourth Industrial Revolution Technology in Agriculture and Education
North Korea is making efforts to embrace Fourth Industrial Revolution technology, particularly in the fields of agriculture and education, as it seeks to expand its applications. The country’s state media has highlighted the increasing global competition in science and technology, pointing to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the education sector and the growing adoption of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology. However, concerns have been raised that North Korea may also be exploring military applications for these advanced technologies.
North Korea’s main newspaper, the Rodong Sinmun, recently reported on the intensifying global competition in science and technology, emphasizing the application of AI in education and the surging use of VR and AR. Efforts to increase agricultural production through the use of AI were also noted by the Korean Central Broadcasting Station, the country’s state-run radio network.
The state media has been introducing global trends in new technologies, particularly in the agricultural and education fields. Last year, North Korean state television aired footage showcasing a VR-based education program designed to teach users about the country’s rich history and culture.
However, concerns have been raised about North Korea’s potential military utilization of Fourth Industrial Revolution technology. Analysts have pointed out that North Korean researchers have already applied AI and machine learning (ML), a sub-field of AI, to sensitive areas such as wargaming and surveillance. They have also emphasized the need to closely monitor North Korea’s activities and enforce measures to mitigate potential sanctions risks in the academic and private sectors.
Given the intangible nature of AI and ML technology transfer, ensuring diligent monitoring and implementing necessary measures is crucial. The potential applications of these technologies in conflicts at a tactical level, involving artillery shells, have also been highlighted. Kim Hyuk, a research fellow at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, has stressed the importance of monitoring North Korea’s activities and addressing any potential risks.
Analyst comment
Positive news:
– North Korea is embracing Fourth Industrial Revolution technology in agriculture and education.
– The country’s state media is highlighting global competition in science and technology.
– North Korea is using AI in education, as well as VR and AR technology.
Negative news:
– Concerns have been raised about North Korea potentially exploring military applications for these advanced technologies.
– Analysts have pointed out that North Korea has already applied AI and ML to sensitive areas such as wargaming and surveillance.
Neutral news:
– Efforts to increase agricultural production through the use of AI were noted.
– North Korean state television aired footage showcasing a VR-based education program.
Short analysis:
The adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution technology in agriculture and education by North Korea is a positive development. However, concerns about their potential military applications raise security risks. Monitoring and implementing measures to mitigate these risks are necessary to ensure a peaceful implementation of the technology.
