MSI Labs Selected as Lead Institution for MSIT's 'AI Big Tech'

## Core Technology Convergence: MSI Lab, Drawing the Future of AI and Nuclear Power The convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and next-generation nuclear technology, poised to lead South Korea's future industries, is accelerating. Leading this innovative trend, MSI Lab, a startup developing a nuclear-specific AI agent platform, has been selected as the lead institution for the Ministry of Science and ICT's 'AI Global Big Tech Nurturing Program,' emerging as a key player to spearhead innovation in this field. This program is a national support initiative aimed at fostering globally competitive companies by combining advanced AI technology and infrastructure accumulated by public research institutions within R&D special zones with the innovative capabilities of private enterprises. To realize this vision, MSI Lab has established a strong consortium with top-tier domestic research institutions: the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) and KAIST. This is regarded as an ideal model where the in-depth expertise of public research institutions and the flexible, rapid execution capability of a private startup can create synergy. MSI Lab's strengths can be traced back to its founding background. Founded by researchers from the SMR (Small Modular Reactor) design department of the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, this tech startup already possesses unique experience and know-how accumulated during SMR design and licensing processes. Based on this, they are successfully carrying out key tasks in next-generation nuclear power engineering, from high-precision verification, structural analysis, and non-destructive diagnostics to future-oriented condition prediction, thereby attracting industry attention. Their expertise is an essential factor in maximizing nuclear safety and efficiency, and when combined with AI technology, it is expected to have explosive potential. Their technological prowess and vision are already recognized in the market. MSI Lab previously attracted investment from Bluepoint Partners, recognizing its market potential, and has consistently demonstrated its technological capability and growth potential by being selected for numerous prestigious support programs, including Deep Tech TIPS, Asan Nanum Foundation, IBK Industrial Bank of Korea, and Korea Credit Guarantee Fund. This proves that MSI Lab possesses the capability to become a game-changer in the nuclear AI sector, beyond being just a startup. Through this 'AI Global Big Tech Nurturing Program,' MSI Lab plans to receive the highest level of AI and nuclear expertise from the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, deeply understand the specific characteristics of the nuclear field, and develop advanced AI technologies applicable to real-world sites. This will bring innovation across the design, operation, and maintenance of future nuclear power plants, becoming a key driving force to achieve both enhanced safety and cost reduction. Lee Kang-heon, CEO of MSI Lab, expressed deep pride in this achievement along with ambitious aspirations. He stated, "This program is an unprecedented opportunity that goes beyond mere technology development, allowing us to confidently introduce innovative AI technology specialized for the nuclear industry to the global market." He added, "Through close collaboration with the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute and KAIST, we will simultaneously pursue advanced technology development and aggressive commercialization, establishing ourselves as a truly global core technology company." This leap by MSI Lab is expected to be a significant milestone, demonstrating South Korea's potential to lead global technological hegemony by converging the two future driving forces of AI and nuclear power.