On October 24, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) of the Republic of Korea co-hosted the AI Regulatory and International Symposium (AIRIS) 2025 in Incheon, South Korea. This event brought together global regulators, academia, industry leaders, and WHO representatives to discuss the responsible integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare systems. Building upon the discussions from AIRIS 2024 in Seoul, the symposium emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach to ensure that AI technologies are developed and implemented in ways that are safe, ethical, and equitable.
A key focus of the symposium was the need for robust governance frameworks to guide AI deployment in health settings. Participants highlighted the necessity of establishing clear regulations and standards that address issues such as data privacy, algorithmic transparency, and accountability. These measures are essential to build public trust and ensure that AI applications enhance, rather than undermine, the quality of healthcare services.
The symposium also underscored the importance of inclusivity in AI development. Delegates discussed strategies to involve diverse stakeholders, including underrepresented communities, in the design and evaluation of AI tools. This inclusive approach aims to prevent biases in AI systems and ensure that their benefits are accessible to all populations, particularly those in low-resource settings.
In conclusion, AIRIS 2025 served as a pivotal platform for fostering international collaboration in the realm of AI in health. The discussions and agreements reached at the symposium are expected to inform future policies and initiatives aimed at harnessing the potential of AI to improve global health outcomes while safeguarding ethical standards and equity.
