Gyeongnam Province, a longstanding industrial hub in South Korea, is embarking on an ambitious plan to modernize its manufacturing sector through digital transformation. The province unveiled its '2025 Gyeongnam Enterprise Digital Transformation Support Strategy' on [Date], aiming to establish Gyeongnam as a world-class industrial metropolis.

Digital transformation, which involves integrating advanced technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence, IoT, and big data into all stages of industrial processes, is at the heart of this initiative. The province has a rich history of manufacturing, dating back to the 1970s, with industries like nuclear power, defense, and shipbuilding being pioneers in adopting smart factory technologies.

To accelerate this digital shift, Gyeongnam plans to invest 5.5 trillion won (approximately [USD equivalent]) by 2033. The province has outlined four key areas for focus: production innovation in major industries, development of digital manufacturing platforms, creation of a manufacturing innovation ecosystem comparable to Pangyo Techno Valley, and strengthening the digital transformation capabilities of local businesses.

Gyeongnam's traditional heavy industries, while contributing significantly to the nation's economic growth, have faced challenges in recent years due to aging infrastructure and a decline in youth interest. The province hopes that digital transformation will not only boost productivity and competitiveness but also attract young talent and create a more sustainable industrial base.

By 2033, Gyeongnam aims to increase the proportion of smart factories from the current 6.4% to 24.4%. This transformation is expected to position Gyeongnam as a global manufacturing hub and create a more vibrant and sustainable economy.