Artificial Intelligence and Society: Inside the Indo-Korea Conference 2025

Written By Nihilaa V M

Edited By: Khooshi Jajoo

Graphic Design By: Spoorti Gowda

Artificial Intelligence is no longer the future; it is the present. From self-learning algorithms to immersive virtual realities, AI is transforming industries, communication, education, and governance. But amid this technological surge, a critical question arises: How do we ensure AI remains ethical, equitable, and accountable?

This was the central concern of the Indo-Korea International Conference (IKIC) 2025, held on July 21–22 at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru. With the theme “Artificial Intelligence & Society: Navigating Towards a Sustainable Future,” the conference served as a vital meeting ground for international scholars, researchers, industry leaders, and students. Organized by the Centre for Korean Studies, Centre for Digital Innovation, Department of Liberal Arts, Department of Statistics and Data Science, Department of International Studies, Political Science and History, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore in collaboration with Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Chennai, Indo-Korea Science & Technology Center and HL Mando Softtech India. This event exemplified CHRIST University’s commitment to interdisciplinary education and global academic collaboration.

The two-day conference was launched in the presence of distinguished Guests of Honour , which included Dr Fr Viju P D (Pro Vice Chancellor of CHRIST University), Mr Chang-Nyun Kim (Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Chennai) and Dr Seung Cheol Lee (Director of the Indo-Korea Science and Technology Center). Each brought unique insights into the growing importance of cross-border research and ethical innovation in technology. Their addresses reflected a shared vision where India and South Korea can co-develop inclusive, human-centric AI ecosystems.

A standout feature of IKIC 2025 was its dual-track format. One track focused on technical advancements, including sessions on deep learning, large language models (LLMs), robotics, computer vision, and data-intensive AI applications in fields like genomics and climate science. These sessions allowed participants to explore not just theoretical models but also real-time applications through live demonstrations and interactive case studies.

Parallelly, the second track focused on the ethical, regulatory, and societal impact of AI. Conversations ranged from algorithmic bias and data privacy to policy frameworks and the accessibility of AI-integrated virtual environments. A particularly powerful session explored how immersive technologies like AR and VR can be used to foster inclusion in education and training, especially when combined with responsible AI.

More importantly, IKIC 2025 wasn't just about listening to experts; rather it was about creating space for academic research and student voices. The conference featured the presentation of both research papers and research posters. Students and scholars from Christ University, South Korea and beyond presented work on AI’s intersections with education, media, sustainability, social equity, and more. These sessions not only elevated emerging scholarship but also showcased CHRIST’s research culture at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Plenary and keynote sessions featured a stellar lineup of international and national speakers. Dr Changhee Yun, Director of the AI Policy Research Team at Korea’s National Information Society Agency, provided insights into the governance challenges posed by rapidly evolving AI tools. Prof S. Irudaya Rajan, Chair of the International Institute of Migration and Development (IIMAD), spoke about data ethics in demographic research. David Joseph Menezes, Director at People+AI, and Sean Hyunil Sohn, CEO of KRAFTON India, brought in valuable industry perspectives on AI deployment, entrepreneurship, and the importance of designing for real-world users.

On July 22, the Christ BRC Campus hosted a full-day event on Ethical Considerations and Societal Impact of AI, bringing together academics, researchers, policy experts, and technologists. The day began with parallel panel discussions addressing critical themes such as AI in governance and public policy, regulatory frameworks, human rights, social responsibility, and the role of ethnography in shaping AI-driven public services. These sessions featured speakers from Christ University, LabourNet, Vidyashilp University, Azim Premji University, and policy organizations like the Aapti Institute and Rajiv Gandhi Foundation. Moderators facilitated dialogue around the ethical dilemmas and policy challenges posed by AI integration, especially in public systems. Following a brief tea break, Dr. Jin-Ho Park from Korea University presented insights on AI-integrated AR/VR/XR applications, highlighting emerging trends in immersive technologies. The Indo-Korea AI Film Festival was then held, showcasing innovative short films such as Eddington, Gulliver in Yuldo, Silk Road Man Marco Polo, and Me with the King Kempegowda, offering artistic reflections on human-machine interaction. In the afternoon, the focus shifted to student and faculty research through paper and poster presentations across four thematic tracks ethics and governance, education and culture, health and spirituality, and sustainability and technical frontiers. Each track explored the rapidly evolving relationship between artificial intelligence and social contexts, raising important questions about equity, agency, and accountability in a digital future.

Throughout the conference, a strong emphasis was placed on Indo-Korea collaboration. From research partnerships to joint policy dialogues, the event showcased how bilateral cooperation can strengthen global AI development frameworks. The conference also highlighted cultural synergy as a powerful foundation for future academic exchange. The day concluded on a reflective note with valedictory remarks by Dr. Jin-Ho Park from Korea University, whose deep personal connection with India added a heartfelt dimension to the event. “This is my second visit to India,” he shared. “My first was 18 years ago, back in 2007, when I was very young. I still remember how deeply impressed I was by Indian architecture and heritage—especially sites like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves.” He recounted a moment that had stayed with him: learning from an Indian archaeologist that the Kailasa Temple at Ellora was carved out of a single rock over a span of 20 years. “That moment left a lasting impression on me. Since then, India has remained in my thoughts every year,” he said. Returning to India in 2025 for the Indo-Korea International Conference, he expressed gratitude and nostalgia, concluding warmly: “I am grateful for this opportunity, and I will never forget this moment. Thank you so much for inviting me. Gamsahamnida.”

As IKIC 2025 drew to a close, one message resonated clearly: the future of AI is not just about what machines can do, but about what we choose to do with them. With many abstracts submitted, dozens of research presentations, and an atmosphere of lively, interdisciplinary debate, the conference marked a key milestone in CHRIST University’s mission to lead ethically grounded, globally relevant education.

For more information on the conference, visit:cuic.christuniversity.in/cks/cks/2025-conf