Strategizing Artificial Intelligence Transformation in Smart Ports: Lessons from Busan’s Resilient AI Governance Model

The global port and maritime industry is experiencing a new paradigm shift known as the artificial intelligence transformation (AX). Thus, domestic container-terminal companies should focus beyond mere automation to a paradigm shift in AI that encompasses operational strategy, organizational structure, system, and human resource management. This study proposes a resilience-based AX strategy and implementation system that allows domestic container-terminal companies to proactively respond to the upcoming changes in the global supply chain, thus securing sustainable competitiveness. In particular, we aim to design an AI-based governance model to establish a trust-based logistics supply chain (trust value chain). As a research method, the core risk factors of AX processes were scientifically identified via text-mining and fault-tree analysis, and a step-by-step execution strategy was established by applying a backcasting technique based on scenario planning. Additionally, by integrating social control theory with new governance theory, we designed a flexible, adaptable, and resilience-oriented AI governance system. The results of this study suggest that the AI paradigm shift should be promoted by enhancing the risk resilience, trust, and recovery of organizations. By suggesting AX strategies and policy as well as institutional improvement directions that embed resilience to secure the sustainable competitiveness of AI-based smart ports in Korea, this study serves as a basis for establishing strategies for the domestic container-terminal industry and for constructing a global leading model.