South Korea will launch pilot projects testing artificial intelligence (AI)-based smart city technologies across five Southeast Asian countries, as part of efforts to address urban challenges while supporting the overseas expansion of domestic firms, Korean media reported on Monday.

Under the 2026 K-City Network program, the land ministry has selected six projects aimed at promoting and validating Korean-developed smart city solutions in international markets, according to the report.

In Brunei, an AI-powered smart city platform will be trialed to enhance water management and disaster response systems.

In the Philippines, a smart traffic management system will be deployed in Bacoor to optimize traffic signal operations.

Vietnam will host two projects, including an on-demand transport service in Ho Chi Minh City and an AI-based smart intersection control system in Can Tho designed to improve traffic flow efficiency.

In Thailand, a safety management solution for ageing buildings will be introduced in Surin province.

Meanwhile, Malaysia’s Penang will see the rollout of a traffic management system designed to detect accidents and ease congestion.

The ministry said the initiative is expected to demonstrate the effectiveness of Korean smart city technologies in real-world environments, while also paving the way for follow-up exports, investment opportunities and broader international cooperation in urban digitalization.

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