Where AI Meets Society: A Cross-Cultural Academic Journey

Written By : Aishwarya Sabnis

Edited By : N. Roshini Reddy

Graphic Design By: Parinaaz Bains

On July 21st and 22nd, Christ (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, proudly hosted the fifth edition of the Indo-Korea International Conference, drawing over 50 esteemed delegates from India and South Korea. Centered around the theme ‘Navigating Towards a Sustainable Future: AI and Society’, the event was a unique convergence of intellect, innovation, and intercultural exchange — a space where technology met humanity.

The inaugural ‘Watering of the Tree’ ceremony beautifully symbolized the nurturing of Indo-Korean friendship and the growth of shared knowledge. This ceremonial act was more than a gesture; it was a reminder that academic partnerships, like trees, flourish through care, intention, and time.

Day 1 offered the vibrant Indo-Korea AI Film Festival, showcasing creative and thought-provoking narratives such as ‘Eddington’, ‘Gulliver in Yuldo’, and ‘Me with the King Kempegowda’. These films illustrated how art and artificial intelligence can co-exist to preserve culture, reimagine history, and stir dialogue.

On Day 2, I had the privilege of presenting a research poster, co-authored with my research partner, Nihilaa V.M., on the topic "Fairness and Bias in Large Language Models (LLMs)". Our study conducted a comparative analysis of ChatGPT and Gemini AI, investigating the subtle biases embedded in their responses and how these biases impact users' understanding of issues related to identity, politics, governance, and finance. Presenting this research not only sharpened our academic rigor but also opened the floor to meaningful feedback and dialogue from scholars across disciplines.

What made this experience even more enriching was the opportunity to engage and network with an inspiring mix of scholars, professors, and students from both India and South Korea. From discussing the future of AI policy to sharing insights on finance, ethics, and public service delivery, the two days were a melting pot of diverse perspectives. These interactions deepened my understanding of the global dimensions of AI and its intersection with society.

Keynote speaker Mr. Chang-Nyun Kim, Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Chennai, delivered a powerful message on the role of governments as facilitators of ethical AI ecosystems, emphasizing inclusion, equity, and digital readiness — values that now feel more urgent than ever.

The panel discussions on topics such as ‘AI in Governance and Public Policy’, ‘AI and Human Rights’, and ‘Ethnography and Public Services’ added immense academic value. These sessions pushed us to think critically, not just as students of technology or social sciences, but as future contributors to an AI-integrated world.

I am deeply grateful to my department and the university for this incredible opportunity. Events like these are not merely academic obligations — they are formative experiences that shape our worldviews, sharpen our inquiry, and ignite our purpose as learners. The conference was a true testament to Christ University’s commitment to fostering global dialogue, interdisciplinary research, and socially responsible innovation.

As I reflect on these two days, I carry forward not only knowledge but also inspiration, new connections, and a deepened commitment to exploring how AI can serve society more justly and inclusively. This was not just a conference — it was a classroom without borders.