Indonesia and South Korea Agree Five-Year Digital Cooperation on Connectivity, Data Security and AI Talent
Indonesia and the Republic of Korea have agreed a five-year partnership to strengthen digital infrastructure, improve data protection and develop artificial intelligence (AI) talent. The agreement, signed by Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital and South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT, is intended to support better public services and expand digital capabilities across sectors including education, healthcare and the digital economy. Details of the agreement were outlined following the signing in Seoul on 1 April 2026, according to the official announcement from Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital.
Improving Digital Connectivity and Public Services
The cooperation aims to improve the reliability and quality of digital networks in Indonesia, including development of next-generation communication technologies. Authorities expect the improvements to support everyday activities such as remote learning, digital health services and online business operations.
Speaking after the signing ceremony in Seoul, Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid said the initiative focuses on delivering practical outcomes for citizens by strengthening digital infrastructure and access to services.
“Melalui kolaborasi ini, pemerintah menargetkan peningkatan kualitas jaringan digital, termasuk pengembangan teknologi komunikasi generasi berikutnya. Masyarakat akan merasakan koneksi internet yang lebih stabil untuk sekolah, layanan kesehatan, dan kegiatan usaha,” — Meutya Hafid, Minister of Communication and Digital, Indonesia
Strengthening Data Protection and Digital Safety
A central component of the agreement is the strengthening of digital oversight and data security frameworks. The cooperation includes measures to enhance protection against data breaches and misuse of personal information, alongside programmes designed to improve public awareness of safe technology use.
Digital literacy initiatives will aim to help citizens use online services safely and productively while supporting broader efforts to improve national cyber resilience. Indonesia has been expanding these efforts through multiple policy initiatives, including programmes to strengthen institutional coordination and resilience across government systems, as seen in initiatives such as national cyber resilience planning involving BSSN and the National Development Planning Ministry.
Expanding AI Applications in Key Public Sectors
The partnership also prioritises the development and application of artificial intelligence to support strategic sectors. Indonesian authorities have indicated that AI initiatives will focus on practical uses in education, healthcare and agriculture.
“Pemanfaatan AI kami arahkan untuk pendidikan, kesehatan, dan pangan. Teknologi harus membantu guru mengajar, membantu tenaga kesehatan bekerja lebih cepat, dan membantu petani mengambil keputusan,” — Meutya Hafid, Minister of Communication and Digital, Indonesia
The collaboration will also support the use of advanced digital infrastructure, including high-performance computing for AI research and development. These capabilities are expected to contribute to domestic innovation and strengthen Indonesia’s wider digital ecosystem.
Developing Indonesia’s Digital and AI Workforce
Human capital development is another focus of the agreement. Indonesia plans to expand training programmes, scholarships and expert exchanges with South Korea to increase the number of professionals with advanced digital and AI skills.
These initiatives are designed to prepare more Indonesian professionals to participate directly in technology development rather than only as users. The collaboration may also strengthen innovation partnerships and digital entrepreneurship opportunities, complementing broader international efforts such as Indonesia’s technology and innovation cooperation with the United Kingdom.
Opportunities for startups and digital businesses are expected to expand through closer engagement with private sector partners and improved ecosystem support.
Joint Committee to Oversee Implementation
To ensure the partnership delivers measurable outcomes, Indonesia and South Korea will establish a joint committee responsible for monitoring progress and coordinating programmes. The cooperation framework will run for five years and is expected to translate into cross-sector initiatives covering public services, research collaboration and digital economic development.
The agreement reflects Indonesia’s continuing efforts to strengthen digital governance and regional partnerships while ensuring that technology adoption translates into tangible benefits for citizens.
