How AI Researchers Can Create a Better World - Language Lab Hyewon Choi

AI technology is becoming a part of our everyday lives, opening up new ways to contribute to humanity. In recent years, AI-related technologies have been recognized with Nobel Prizes in physics and chemistry. Here’s a story about an AI developer who has long been on his own path with the goal of creating AI by people, for people. Let’s hear from Hyewon Choi of the Language Lab.

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Hello, I’m Hyewon Choi of the Language Lab.

Image 1. How AI Researchers Can Create a Better World - Language Lab Hyewon Choi

Q. What kind of research do you do at LG AI Research?

At the Language Lab, I work on natural language processing, which is basically the ability of computers to understand and communicate with human speech. Among the various areas of natural language processing, I focus on information retrieval. 

The goal of research in information retrieval is to provide users with the best and most accurate information for their queries when they perform searches using AI models, such as search engines like Google and Naver. This involves a complex process of understanding the user’s intent and delivering the best results, rather than simply listing relevant information. 

In the Language Lab, one of my main research projects is to create powerful and sophisticated search algorithms. Research in the field of information retrieval is broadly divided into two approaches: traditional lexicon-based search and deep learning-based search. I focus on thoroughly analyzing the pros and cons of both approaches and developing a more effective search system that combines the accuracy of lexicon-based search with the flexibility of deep learning-based search. 

Recently, I’ve also been working on various research efforts to effectively integrate retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) structures into the search system and enable LLMs to generate more accurate and contextualized answers to user queries, with the ultimate goal of providing users with richer and more accurate information.

Q. What got you interested in the field of natural language processing?

When I was in elementary school, there was a cartoon that really left an impression on me. The main character of the cartoon had the amazing ability to turn trash into trees, and he used this ability to solve various problems and bring joy and happiness to people.

When I was studying natural language processing in college, I realized that natural language processing plays a similar role to that of the cartoon character: it provides real value and convenience to people by turning disorderly text data into meaningful results. From that point on, I knew that I wanted to make a positive difference in people’s lives through natural language processing technology, and it motivated me to pursue research in the field of natural language processing.

The Determination to Use AI to Improve Our Lives

Image 2. Hyewon Choi brainstorming research ideas

Q. I heard you have a special inspiration for studying AI.

I actually started my studies a little late. I grew up amidst a difficult financial situation and had to earn money early on, so I didn’t have the time to focus on my studies. I think I did anything to pay the bills, from part-time jobs to door-to-door sales, as long as it was legal.

Then, in my early 20s, I had a chance encounter with an older man that changed my life forever. I was selling socks door-to-door, and he said he would buy five sets, so I went into his house to talk to him for a bit. He told me that I shouldn’t just be selling socks, that I should study, that his son was a lawyer, and that I was a better speaker than his son.

To be honest, I didn't really like what he was saying at the time. He didn't know my situation, and I thought he was just talking theoretically. I didn't think much of it, and I came home and turned on the TV, and the movie Iron Man was on. I was watching it, and suddenly got emotional. I realized at that moment that I had a passion for learning and a desire to change the world with technology, just like Iron Man. So I went to university at the age of 24.

Q. How was your university experience?

While I was in university, I was supported by a lot of scholarships, but in reality, it wasn’t always easy. What made me decide to go to grad school was a national project I participated in as an undergraduate. I participated in a project of the Korean Supreme Prosecutor’s Office on “AI to identify criminals,” which was a new experience. I felt like a hero because my skills were being used to make society better, and I thought, “What can I do in grad school that will make me a greater and more helpful person?”

Q. As we've been talking about it, it seems like you've had this idea for quite some time, wanting to help people with AI.

That’s right. I started studying because I wanted to change the world with technology, and through my research in natural language processing, I experienced the positive energy of AI technology. That’s how I got to where I am today, with the goal of creating AI that helps people and changes the world.

I'm still very interested in using AI to solve problems, as it’s a technology that can be applied even in minor fields and has the potential to address a wide range of issues. 

I frequently participate in external activities such as motivational lectures, and recently I’ve become a paper reviewer. Papers need to go through an approval process before they can be published, and this process requires reviews from a variety of researchers.As a paper reviewer, I feel that by sharing my opinion, I can improve the quality of research and add depth to my field of expertise.

AI by People, for People

Image 3. Hyewon Choi’s workspace

Q. Is there anything in particular that the Language Lab is focusing on to develop AI that makes the world a better place?

The Language Lab aims to be overwhelmingly successful, which means producing the best results and developing AI solutions that can actually have a positive impact on users’ everyday lives. To this end, we’re working on various affiliate projects to develop the ability to connect theoretical research to real-world needs. We’re accumulating practical problem-solving experience in various industries and focus on developing solutions that can be applied to real-world business environments, taking into account the characteristics of each field.

Also, we aim for research that focuses on user satisfaction. This means that we don’t do research for research’s sake, but instead prioritize the needs and experiences of end users in every research project. 

We also place a strong emphasis on ethical and responsible AI development, always considering the impact of AI on society and working to ensure that technology develops in a way that respects human values and rights.

Image 4. A day in the life at LG AI Research

Q. What’s the atmosphere and work culture like at the Language Lab?

At the Language Lab, we value the creativity and productivity of our members most. I think this is most important. We have a culture where everyone is free to voice their opinions and share ideas. We also organize various team-building activities. There’s not only a chance to get to know each other but also a chance to deepen our understanding of each other’s research fields and exchange creative ideas.

The Language Lab is also organized into squads, each of which focuses on a specific research topic or project and collaborates closely with other squad members. This allows us to bring in different perspectives while still focusing on our own expertise, which is very beneficial to research.
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Image 5. Hyewon Choi sharing his aspirations as an AI developer

Q. Finally, do you have any dreams you’d like to fulfill as an AI developer?

I want to create AI by people, for people, and use it to solve economic disparities and various social problems. This isn’t just a wish, but a core goal of my research.

When I meet and talk to successful people in various fields, there’s a key secret to their success: they’re good at actively outsourcing, and they’re very efficient with their time and skills. They maximize the value of their time by focusing on their core competencies that are relevant to achieving their goals and delegating non-core tasks to other experts.

I dream of a world where AI is easily accessible to everyone and empowers them to fulfill their potential. This requires AI that’s trustworthy, usable, and affordable. That’s what the team at the Language Lab is working towards today, with thoughtful consideration of the social and ethical dimensions along with the technical achievements.


Source : LG Sciencepark Brand Book 'Young Professional'