OpenAI Korea and education company Fast Campus organized a hands-on AI training program for senior participants in South Korea [1].
The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide for the elderly by introducing generative AI tools. As artificial intelligence becomes integrated into daily services, providing seniors with these skills prevents social isolation and opens professional opportunities.
The workshop took place on May 8, 2024, which coincides with South Korea’s Parents’ Day [2]. Participants learned how to navigate ChatGPT, utilize voice commands, and conduct information searches to simplify their daily lives [1].
Some participants viewed the technology as a way to enter the workforce or manage existing online presence. Yeon Gyu-seo, a participant, said he wanted to create a tool that acts like an AI assistant to automate replies to questions from his YouTube channel subscribers [3].
Others noted that the training provided a necessary entry point into technology they previously found intimidating. Seo Gyo-nam, a participant, said his daughter sent him a photo of the event and that he typically finds these areas of technology difficult [3].
Kim Kyung-hoon, the general representative of OpenAI Korea, said some participants want to start new businesses while others want to help people around them, and that using AI is beneficial for achieving those dreams [3].
The program focuses on practical applications, moving beyond theoretical knowledge to ensure seniors can apply AI to real-world tasks. By focusing on voice commands and intuitive interfaces, the organizers aim to lower the barrier to entry for those who struggle with traditional typing, or complex software interfaces [1].
“Using AI is beneficial for achieving those dreams.”
This program reflects a growing trend of 'silver tech' education in South Korea, where a rapidly aging population meets a high-tech infrastructure. By targeting seniors on Parents' Day, OpenAI Korea is positioning generative AI not just as a corporate productivity tool, but as a social utility that can facilitate lifelong learning and economic participation for the elderly.
