OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, is making a strategic move into Asia by opening its first office in Seoul, South Korea. This expansion comes in response to surging demand for ChatGPT in the country, which now ranks second only to the United States in terms of paying subscribers.
The company confirmed on Monday that it has already established a legal entity in South Korea and begun the recruitment process to build its local team. According to OpenAI, the new office will support partnerships and further strengthen the company’s ties to one of the world’s most AI-forward nations.
Jason Kwon, OpenAI’s Chief Strategy Officer, highlighted South Korea’s unique position in the global AI race. “Korea’s full-stack AI ecosystem makes it one of the most promising markets in the world for meaningful AI impact—from silicon to software, and students to seniors,” Kwon said in an official statement.
Earlier in 2025, OpenAI partnered with Kakao, the South Korean tech giant known for its popular messaging app, to jointly develop AI products tailored for the Korean market. This partnership hinted at the company’s long-term vision for establishing a deeper presence in Asia.
Kwon, currently visiting Seoul, is expected to hold meetings with both ruling and opposition lawmakers, including members of the People Power Party and the Democratic Party. These discussions may set the stage for future collaborations and policy discussions as South Korea continues to adopt and regulate advanced AI technologies.
This move positions South Korea as a major player in OpenAI’s global expansion plan, especially as AI technology becomes an essential tool for innovation across education, communication, healthcare, and industry. With South Korea’s strong digital infrastructure, tech-savvy population, and a government committed to digital transformation, the timing couldn’t be better.
While full details of the new Seoul office’s operations will be announced in the coming months, the setup marks a milestone in OpenAI’s mission to democratize AI access and support local ecosystems. The company’s growth strategy is not only about bringing AI solutions to users but also about tapping into regional talent and fostering responsible AI development globally.
As AI adoption accelerates worldwide, OpenAI’s focus on South Korea underlines a shift toward a more inclusive global footprint. With partnerships, hiring, and infrastructure underway, the Seoul office is expected to play a critical role in shaping the future of AI in Asia.
