Source: 카자흐스탄 "알라타우 시티 프로젝트에 韓 기업 참여 희망...양국 시너지"

Kazakhstan officially launched its Alatau City smart city project with an investment roadshow in Seoul on October 15, inviting Korean companies to participate as key partners. The project, led by the Kazakhstan government in collaboration with the Caspian Group and other private investors, aims to diversify Kazakhstan’s economy from resource exports to high-tech and knowledge-based industries.

Alatau City will be developed on an 880 km² site north of Almaty, approximately 1.45 times the size of Seoul, featuring four specialized zones for finance, industry, tourism, and education. Advanced technologies such as AI and blockchain will be integrated to create a global hub for knowledge, finance, and tourism. Development is planned in stages until 2048, with the first phase covering 440 hectares and an initial investment of approximately USD 10 billion.

A key feature of the city is K-PARK, a cultural and business complex honoring the 90th anniversary of the forced relocation of ethnic Koreans to Kazakhstan. K-PARK will include K-culture attractions, restaurants, accommodations, and business hubs, highlighting historical and cultural significance.

Officials emphasized the strategic advantages for Korean companies. Kazakhstan offers a favorable investment environment with tax incentives, streamlined land allocation, and access to raw materials and logistics corridors linking Russia, Europe, China, and Southeast Asia. Vice Minister Dmitriy Mun of Kazakhstan’s AI and Digital Development Ministry highlighted Korea’s advanced smart city experience, naming Korea as the top partner for technology collaboration.

Kazakhstan aims to make Alatau City a showcase for new technologies and international investment, reinforcing economic and cultural ties with South Korea.