Songpa-gu in Seoul has launched an AI digital skills training program for local small business owners.
The program is a free, tailored course that even owners with no prior AI experience can follow using only a smartphone.
As more customers search for and compare businesses online, digital marketing has become an increasingly pressing challenge for small business owners — yet many find it difficult to carve out the time to learn AI tools. In response, the district organized the program to help local entrepreneurs pick up AI skills and apply them directly to their day-to-day operations.
The curriculum takes participants from the basics through to practical application using a smartphone. Photos and videos produced during class can be uploaded to a store's own channels on the spot, giving owners an immediate way to test what they have learned.
The course runs for eight weeks. The first week introduces real-world examples of how AI can be used in a small business setting, followed by sessions on building a brand identity and finding government support programs. Participants then learn how to shoot and edit product photos with AI, produce short-form and YouTube promotional videos, and attract customers through blogs and TikTok. The program also covers essential AI tools such as Gemini and techniques for enhancing a store's atmosphere. The final week features a guest lecture by an industry expert and a certificate ceremony. By the end, participants will have the foundational skills to handle product photography, video production and social media promotion on their own.
The program is being run in partnership with the Songpa-gu Small Business Owners Association, headed by Choi Seong-hui.
Enrollment is open to small business owners operating in Songpa-gu, with spots available to the first 30 applicants. Registration can be completed by scanning the QR code on the program poster or by submitting an application via email. For further details, contact the Songpa-gu Small Business Owners Association directly.
Classes will be held every Monday at 10 a.m. starting Sept. 7 through Oct. 26. The venue is Hana Bank's Eastern Business Headquarters at 10 Olympic-ro 35ga-gil, Songpa-gu. Participation is free.
"I hope this program helps small business owners who have seen AI as a distant, intimidating technology come to embrace it as a reliable tool for their stores," Songpa-gu District Mayor Seo Gang-seok said. "We will keep working to support local small business owners so they can adapt to a rapidly changing market with confidence and run their businesses without worry."
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