LG Electronics is developing cutting edge technologies with Chinese military universities. What are they thinking?

It's the latest collaboration in a long relationship between South Korea and China's military.

Ben Forney

Sep 05, 2024

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LG Electronics is developing cutting edge technologies with Chinese military universities. What are they thinking?

A futuristic image depicting the technological fusion between South Korea and China, with a military HVAC system placed prominently in the center. The scene combines advanced technology from both nations, such as South Korean robotics and AI systems, alongside Chinese innovations in communication technology and infrastructure. The military HVAC system in the middle is robust and industrial, symbolizing cooling and ventilation in military contexts. Surrounding the HVAC system are circuits, digital displays, and components from both countries, signifying collaboration. The background features a futuristic skyline merging elements from both South Korea and China, symbolizing a shared technological future.

Over the weekend, LG Electronics - the South Korean conglomerate known for their high end TV screens and home appliances - announced it was teaming up with institutes in China to develop next-generation heat pump technologies.

This might sound innocuous.

But the technologies they’re developing aren’t just for keeping homes warm in winter. They also have an array of military uses.

Then consider that the three Chinese institutions LG is partnering with, the Harbin Institute of Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Xian Jiaotong University, all have close ties to the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

And one of them, the Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT), is under the control of a Chinese government ministry that directs the country’s defense research and development.

Does LG - and South Korea - know what they’re getting into?

Keep reading to find out what’s happening - and what needs to change.

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