75th MUMEI-JUKU (10/12/2025)

Theme: Open Source AI

Guest Speaker: Jim Zemlin, Executive Director, The Linux Foundation

[Opening Remarks by Workshop Host Takeda]
Jim Zemlin is a leader guiding the global open-source movement. However, the Linux Foundation is not merely an organization supporting Linux; it coordinates numerous projects underpinning the very foundations of the world’s digital infrastructure, including cloud computing, security, and AI. I understand Jim has also launched the new ‘Agentic AI Foundation’ – truly a moment when history is being made. That he is willing to share his time with us amidst such a demanding schedule is deeply meaningful for us.

Important decisions concerning AI have also begun to move forward in Japan. Budgetary measures are in place, and we are entering a phase of full-scale implementation. Fundamental research at universities is vital. However, what the world now faces is not just research, but implementation. AI is not merely a convenient tool. It possesses the power to transform industrial structures and societal frameworks themselves.

I refer to this as “AI Transformation,” and the US has already begun leading in its implementation phase. To sustain Japan’s prosperity, we must join the “first group” in AI Transformation. As was the case with DX, pursuing from behind means losing the opportunity for first-mover advantage.

AI Transformation is said to bring about even greater change than DX. The future Jim speaks of is one Japan should strive to realize. Is the AI bubble truly a bubble? Where is Agentic AI headed? And what role will open source play in this transformation? I look forward to hearing Jim’s vision.

【Comment by Dr.Takeda,】
In Japan, there tends to be a relatively optimistic view of AI’s future, but this is not necessarily the case globally, where serious discussions about challenges and risks continue. For example, there is a recent analysis called “Project Iceberg,” conducted jointly by MIT and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This examines the impact current AI levels could have on white-collar jobs in the US. The findings suggest that approximately 20 million administrative workers could be affected in some way. This figure is itself an ‘iceberg’ – representing only the visible portion above the surface, with significant changes and challenges still lurking beneath.

Thus, the impact of AI may well extend far beyond what we currently perceive. Governments, businesses, and universities must prepare now, not only for convenience but also for the societal impacts concerning employment and institutional design. Meanwhile, AI is already being utilized across multiple sectors. Agent-based AI, moreover, holds potential for further advancement. While promoting AI, Japan and the US will need to collaborate in discussions on how to ensure its safety and reliability.