The AI Inclusion Challenge: Assessing Digital Vulnerability in AI Adoption and Usage

This chapter examines the disparities in AI adoption, awareness, and perceived helpfulness between the general public and digitally vulnerable populations in South Korea. Using national survey data, the findings reveal that while the general public demonstrates higher AI usage and awareness, digitally vulnerable groups—including seniors, low-income individuals, people with disabilities, and multicultural family members—face systemic barriers to AI adoption. These barriers stem from limited AI literacy, accessibility challenges, affordability concerns, and a lack of perceived relevance, reinforcing existing digital inequalities. The study highlights the gap between AI awareness and actual usage, emphasizing that mere exposure to AI is insufficient for meaningful engagement. While AI has the potential to improve accessibility, it may also deepen digital disparities if accessibility and usability concerns are not addressed. These findings underscore the need for targeted AI policies that prioritize equitable access, AI literacy, and affordability to mitigate the risks of AI exacerbating the digital divide. Policy recommendations include AI literacy programs, culturally adaptive AI services, and measures to mitigate algorithmic bias.