April 01, 2024 – According to a report by Nikkei, OpenAI is set to open its first Asian office in Tokyo, Japan this month, marking a significant expansion of its operations in the region. The company, which sparked a global wave of generative AI with the release of ChatGPT in 2022, plans to offer unique services to enterprises and engage in shaping the rules for the proper use of generative AI.
The decision to establish a presence in Japan comes after OpenAI CEO Sam Altman visited the country in April 2023 and met with the Japanese Prime Minister. During their discussion, Altman and the Prime Minister exchanged views on the advancements and benefits of AI, as well as the risks associated with privacy infringements and copyright violations.
Following the meeting, Altman expressed his desire to create something great for the Japanese people, emphasizing the importance of making large language models more suitable for the Japanese language and culture. “We hope to tailor our technology to better align with the nuances and unique characteristics of the Japanese context,” he said.
Japan, on the other hand, is evaluating the potential of introducing AI-driven technologies, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, while carefully examining both their benefits and risks. The country recognizes the transformative power of AI and is committed to ensuring its responsible deployment that fosters innovation while protecting the interests of its citizens.
With the opening of its Tokyo office, OpenAI is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of AI in Asia, collaborating closely with businesses, governments, and academia to harness the full potential of this transformative technology.
