Securing Talent and AI Expertise — CIC Leaders Share ‘Golden Tips’ [Herald Business Forum 2024]

Recently, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as the defining topic in the global market. From traditional manufacturing to semiconductors, mobility, robotics, and aerospace, it is nearly impossible to discuss innovation without AI. The race to secure technological leadership and dominate the market has made AI innovation not an “option” but a “necessity for survival.” At the same time, the sweeping AI boom across industries has become both a source of innovation and a new business opportunity for companies — prompting many in-house ventures and subsidiaries to leverage AI as a competitive edge.

The *Herald Economy* hosted the “Herald Business Forum 2024” at the Shilla Hotel in Seoul on the 15th, where it invited leading in-house ventures (CICs) driving AI-based innovation to discuss strategies for global market success under the theme *“Launching K-Unicorns.”* The panel featured Minsoo Kim (Associate Partner, McKinsey & Company), Deok-hoon Park (CEO, EcoMarine, Lotte Chemical), Chan-woo Park (CEO, Kuru Company, LG Energy Solution), Jung-jin Bae (CEO, Aplayz, Hyundai Motor Company), Tae-hoon Ahn (CEO, Flexell Space, Hanwha Systems), and Dohyung Lim (CEO, Avikus, HD Hyundai).

During the discussion, CIC leaders identified two key elements for in-house ventures to thrive and secure future growth: differentiated core capabilities and passionate talent.

Park Chan-woo emphasized, “You must have a clearly differentiated strength from competitors, and passionate team members who can lead the in-house venture are the key to success.” Park Deok-hoon added, “When forming in-house venture teams, relying solely on personal connections among employees creates limitations — we could have avoided many trial-and-error moments with a more structured approach.”

Aplayz CEO Jung-jin Bae shared insights on leadership and talent cultivation within corporate startups, saying, “In-house startups benefit greatly from brand reputation and corporate resources, but once spun off, they carry a responsibility to set an example and contribute to society. Since many founders lack HR experience, it’s essential to focus on identifying and nurturing talent that aligns with the company’s vision.”

The panel also shared business cases applying AI. Ahn Tae-hoon of Flexell Space stated, “We officially spun off as an independent company this month, largely thanks to AI. When developing prototype solar cells for space, we use AI for monitoring, prediction, and analysis to reduce both time and cost. For instance, instead of outsourcing full-scale radiation testing abroad, we use accumulated data to determine which limited tests are sufficient.”

Avikus CEO Lim Dohyung added, “Autonomous ship navigation is inherently AI-driven — from perception and decision-making to control. Unlike cars, ships require far more complex control systems, so we apply reinforcement learning. Although being first in the field means there are no precedents, creating new standards and pioneering the technology is rewarding.”

Park Chan-woo described how Kuru Company is redefining LG Energy Solution’s business model: “LG Energy Solution has traditionally focused on B2B, so entering the B2C market with battery pack exchange services was unfamiliar. Yet, installing over 400 battery swap stations and continuously attracting riders this year is a major achievement.”

Addressing EV battery fire concerns, he noted, “Safety has become a major topic — people ask, ‘Is it safe?’ Our system ensures battery packs are managed more safely than individual charging, which is crucial for reliability.”

Bae’s company, Aplayz, follows the philosophy “Play Every Space,” offering AI-driven “spatial music curation.” The service recommends music tailored to each location’s unique characteristics, environment, and users. Recently, Aplayz launched an in-room music curation service at Hanwha Resorts and has expanded its service to various spaces, including public parking lots.

Bae explained, “Most popular streaming platforms prohibit use in public spaces, but Aplayz is bringing public-space music curation into the mainstream. We’re developing technology to deliver the most suitable music for each shared environment.”

The panelists also offered practical advice for aspiring founders within corporations: building strong collaboration with the parent company is key to improving success rates. Park Deok-hoon shared, “Even after spinning off, maintaining close communication with the parent company is vital. For example, EcoMarine’s success stems from support by Lotte Chemical, which provided access to facilities and infrastructure that would be impossible for a startup alone.”

Bae added, “When starting an in-house startup, identify synergy points with the parent company early and build your business around them. Without a clear connection, post-spin-off operations and attracting outside investment can be challenging. It’s also important to retain skills from corporate support departments like HR and finance, as these become essential for scaling — especially when hiring the right people.”

Reporters: Jung Yun-hee, Kim Eun-hee, Kim Sung-woo, Kim Byul-ri (yuni@heraldcorp.com)

[Talent Acquisition, AI Core Capabilities, and Parent Company Synergy — CIC Leaders’ Insights from the *Herald Business Forum 2024*], *Herald Economy*, October 16, 2024