OpenAI has joined forces with South Korea’s tech powerhouse Kakao to integrate advanced AI into its popular apps, including the widely used messaging platform KakaoTalk.
This move strengthens OpenAI’s presence in Asia, where it faces growing competition from Chinese AI company DeepSeek.
The partnership marks OpenAI’s second major collaboration in Asia in just two days. Earlier, the company announced a joint venture with Japan’s SoftBank to develop AI tools for Japanese businesses.
OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, is actively working to expand the company’s influence in the region while countering DeepSeek’s rise, which has shaken the AI industry with its affordable and efficient models.
What Does This Mean for Kakao Users?
Kakao, a South Korean tech giant, is best known for KakaoTalk, a messaging app that’s more than just a chat platform, it’s a super app where users can shop, book rides, pay bills, and more.
Think of it as South Korea’s version of China’s WeChat. With OpenAI’s advanced AI models, KakaoTalk and other Kakao services could soon feature smarter search, AI-generated content, and even ChatGPT-like responses.
Kakao has already been developing its own AI tools, including an AI assistant app called Kanana.
OpenAI’s involvement could take these features to the next level, making them more conversational and useful across Kakao’s wide range of services, from banking to shopping.
Why Is OpenAI Focusing on Asia?
OpenAI is making big moves in Asia to solidify its position in the global AI race. Besides partnering with Kakao, Altman has been meeting with South Korea’s top tech leaders, including SK Group and Samsung, to discuss AI-related projects.
In Japan, OpenAI’s collaboration with SoftBank aims to create AI tools for businesses, with plans to invest $3 billion annually.
The partnership builds on their earlier Stargate Project, a massive AI infrastructure initiative backed by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Altman’s next stop is India, where he plans to promote OpenAI as a key player in the country’s AI development, despite some tensions with local billionaires over copyright concerns.
What About DeepSeek?
OpenAI’s expansion comes as DeepSeek, a Chinese AI startup, gains traction with its low-cost, high-efficiency models.
DeepSeek’s rapid rise has been described as a wake-up call for U.S. tech companies.
In response, Altman has promised to speed up the release of improved AI models.
While OpenAI has accused DeepSeek of copying its technology, Altman acknowledges the growing role of open-source AI models.
He stated, “There’s definitely room for open source,” but admitted that OpenAI is still figuring out its strategy in this space.
What’s Next?
The partnership between OpenAI and Kakao is a significant step in bringing AI-powered features to everyday apps in South Korea and beyond.
As OpenAI continues to expand its reach in Asia, it’s clear that the company is determined to stay ahead in the global AI race, even as competition heats up.
For Kakao users, this could mean smarter, more personalized experiences across their favorite apps.
And for OpenAI, it’s another step toward becoming a key player in Asia’s booming tech scene.
