South Korea launches 6‑trillion‑won AI data center in Pohang

The Korean government, through the Regional Activation Investment Fund, approved the construction of a GPU‑based, water‑cooled AI‑specific data center in Pohang’s Gwangmyeong industrial complex. The project costs about 6 trillion won (≈ $4.5 billion), with a power capacity of 40 MW (IT load 32 MW) and aims to start operations in the first half of 2028. It is expected to create roughly 4,300 construction jobs and generate about 1.2 trillion won in production‑induced effects, while attracting global big‑tech firms.

In the same fund round, a 1.798 trillion‑won battery energy storage system (BESS) will be built in Yeonggwang, South Korea, with 80 MW discharge capacity and 480 MWh storage, slated for completion by December 2027. The BESS will store excess renewable power and support grid stability, contributing to regional industrial growth. The combined 9.8 trillion‑won investment is part of a broader 4.4 trillion‑won, ten‑project portfolio aimed at revitalising local economies.