April 7 (Asia Today) -- South Korea's internet security agency has launched a project to develop security standards and industry-specific protection models for physical artificial intelligence, as concerns grow over cyberattacks that could cause real-world damage in industrial settings.
The Korea Internet & Security Agency, or KISA, said Monday it will accept bids through April 21 for the project, titled Development of Physical AI Security Standards and Industry Expansion Security Models.
The initiative comes as South Korea steps up investment in physical AI, a field that applies artificial intelligence to machines and systems operating in real-world environments. Unlike conventional cyberattacks that mainly target data, attacks on physical AI systems could trigger equipment malfunctions, production shutdowns and other physical damage, officials said.
A KISA official said the agency is seeking to create practical security guidelines that companies can use during product development and operation to help prevent such risks.
The project is scheduled to run through mid-December after a contractor is selected. Its goal is to establish common security standards for what officials described as a Korean model for physical AI and to build a foundation for responding to emerging threats.
