In a significant step towards fostering international collaboration and advancing cutting-edge technologies in manufacturing, Georgia Tech recently signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH) and the Korea Automotive Technology Institute (KATECH). Facilitated by the Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute (GTMI), this landmark event underscores Georgia Tech’s commitment to global partnerships and innovation in manufacturing and automotive technologies. 

“This is a great fit for the institute, the state of Georgia, and the United States, enhancing international cooperation,” said Thomas Kurfess, GTMI executive director and Regents’ Professor in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering (ME). “An MoU like this really gives us an opportunity to bring together a larger team to tackle international problems.” 

“An MoU signing between Georgia Tech and entities like KITECH and KATECH signifies a formal agreement to pursue shared goals and explore collaborative opportunities, including joint research projects, academic exchanges, and technological advancements,” said Seung-Kyum Choi, an associate professor in ME and a major contributor in facilitating both partnerships. “Partnering with these influential institutions positions Georgia Tech to expand its global footprint and enhance its impact, particularly in areas like AI-driven manufacturing and automotive technologies.” 

The state of Georgia has seen significant growth in investments from Korean companies. Over the past decade, approximately 140 Korean companies have committed around $23 billion to various projects in Georgia, creating over 12,000 new jobs in 2023 alone. This influx of investment underscores the strong economic ties between Georgia and South Korea, further bolstered by partnerships like those with KITECH and KATECH. 

“These partnerships not only provide access to new resources and advanced technologies,” says Choi, “but create opportunities for joint innovation, furthering GTMI’s mission to drive transformative breakthroughs in manufacturing on a global scale.”  

The MoUs with KITECH and KATECH are expected to facilitate a wide range of collaborative activities, including joint research projects that leverage the strengths of both institutions, academic exchanges that enrich the educational experiences of students and faculty, and technological advancements that push the boundaries of current manufacturing and automotive technologies. 

“My hopes for the future of Georgia Tech’s partnerships with KITECH and KATECH are centered on fostering long-term, impactful collaborations that drive innovation in manufacturing and automotive technologies,” Choi noted. “These partnerships do not just expand our reach; they solidify our leadership in shaping the future of manufacturing, keeping Georgia Tech at the forefront of industry breakthroughs worldwide.” 

Georgia Tech has a history of successful collaborations with Korean companies, including a multidecade partnership with Hyundai. Recently, the Institute joined forces with the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT) to establish the KIAT-Georgia Tech Semiconductor Electronics Center to advance semiconductor research, fostering sustainable partnerships between Korean companies and Georgia Tech researchers. 

“Partnering with KATECH and KITECH goes beyond just technological innovation,” said Kurfess, “it really enhances international cooperation, strengthens local industry, drives job creation, and boosts Georgia’s economy.”