Michael Hwang (Datumo)
Overview
Michael Hwang is an influential figure in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) as the co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) of Datumo, Inc., a prominent South Korean AI company. Known for its dedication to AI safety and trustworthiness, Datumo has established itself as a pivotal player in the industry with clients such as Samsung, LG, Hyundai, and SK Telecom. Michael is also noted for his active role in AI ethics and policy discussions, positioning himself as a thought leader advocating for responsible AI deployment across the globe.
Recent Developments
- August 11, 2025: Datumo raised $15.5 million in a funding round led by Salesforce Ventures to expedite research and expand globally, particularly into the U.S. and Japan. The company aims to enhance its AI evaluation capabilities to foster safer AI usage.
- August 2025: Michael participated as a speaker at SXSW 2025, focusing on the convergence of AI and entertainment.
- 2024: Datumo generated approximately $6 million in revenue and continued to grow its client base to over 300 South Korean companies.
These developments underscore Datumo's transition from a data labeling company into a leader in AI safety, promoting the importance of evaluating large language models (LLMs) and ensuring their responsible implementation.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael Hwang |
| Born | Not specified |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur, Angel Investor, AI Enthusiast |
| Known For | Co-founder and CSO of Datumo, Inc. |
| Education | Bachelor's and Master's from KAIST |
Early Life and Education
Michael Hwang was raised in South Korea, where his passion for technology and entrepreneurship developed early on. He pursued his education at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), obtaining his bachelor's degree in Computer Science. His academic journey continued with a Master's degree in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from KAIST, solidifying his pathway toward a career that intersects technology and business leadership.
Career and Notable Achievements
Michael Hwang is recognized for his pioneering role in AI, having co-founded Datumo in 2019. His career highlights include:
- Leading Datumo: Under his strategic guidance, Datumo morphed from a data labeling firm to a global advocate for AI safety, securing funding and partnerships with marquee investors and clients.
- Advisory Roles: Michael actively contributes to AI discussion forums and committees, focusing on ethical policy-making and responsible AI use.
- Speaking Engagements: He has been a key speaker at international AI events, including the AI Summit Seoul and World Summit AI Americas.
Current Work and Impact
Currently, Michael Hwang is instrumental in guiding Datumo's strategic initiatives, emphasizing the development of tools that enhance AI model evaluations. With the recent funding, Datumo aims to cement its place in the global market as a leader in AI evaluation and safety, contributing to the growing discourse on AI's impact on society and the necessity for robust, ethical guidelines.
Conclusion
Michael Hwang's visionary leadership and entrepreneurial acumen continue to propel Datumo as an indispensable entity in the AI industry. As Datumo expands its reach and influence, Michael is poised to leave a significant legacy in promoting ethical AI practices and fostering technological developments that prioritize safety and trustworthiness.