KT is pushing an AI ecosystem for the public built around its IumInside framework, aiming to connect high-touch consumer services into a single AI experience. The company said IumInside links external services and an AI agent bidirectionally using an MCP-based approach. Partners include Daum, Musinsa, Zigbang, EBS, MassPresso and BC Card, with more than 60 million combined service touchpoints. KT targets a December launch and is considering some paid services later.

South Korea\'s financial authorities expanded the scope of eased network separation rules for AI use to secondary financial institutions and electronic financial business operators. The number of firms to be selected rises to as many as 15, and eligibility thresholds are lowered. Selected institutions can use external AI and security SaaS after putting alternative controls in place. Industry expectations are mixed, with some firms cautious. Global fintech investment rose to $103.1 billion in the first half, with focus expected to shift to AI and financial infrastructure.