In the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence, a new player from Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, is making waves on a global scale. DeepSeek, an AI lab founded by visionary entrepreneur Liang Wenfeng, has captured international attention with the release of its groundbreaking R1 model.
Unveiled just last Monday, the R1 model represents a significant leap in AI technology, trained at a fraction of the cost of mainstream models like OpenAI's ChatGPT. Within days, DeepSeek's app skyrocketed to the top of the iPhone free app charts in both China and the United States, surpassing even the once-dominant ChatGPT. This rapid ascent has ignited a spirited debate in Silicon Valley about the sustainability of U.S. tech companies' lead in AI innovation.
Liang Wenfeng, the man behind DeepSeek, has become a focal point in discussions about the future of AI. Last week, he was among the select experts invited to a symposium in Beijing, where Chinese Premier Li Qiang sought insights from leaders across various sectors on the nation's development strategies.
From Hedge Funds to AI Frontiers
A graduate of Zhejiang University with a degree in Artificial Intelligence, Liang's journey is a testament to his relentless pursuit of innovation. In 2016, he co-founded High-Flyer, a quantitative hedge fund renowned for its pioneering use of AI-driven trading strategies. Under his guidance, High-Flyer fully integrated AI into its operations by 2021, utilizing machine learning models to predict market trends and make data-driven investment decisions.
In May 2023, Liang embarked on a new venture with the establishment of DeepSeek, focusing on advancing the field of artificial general intelligence (AGI). Unlike traditional profit-driven enterprises, DeepSeek is conceived as a platform for long-term, fundamental research. Liang envisions it as a space where curiosity and exploration drive meaningful advancements without the immediate pressures of commercial returns.
Embracing 'Long-Termism' in AI
Liang's philosophy centers on what he describes as \"long-termism.\" For him, DeepSeek is more than just a business—it's a passion project fueled by a deep curiosity about the nature of human intelligence. He acknowledges the challenges and low immediate returns often associated with basic research but remains steadfast in his belief that delving into complex fields like finance and AGI is essential.
\"Understanding the essence of human intelligence and the processes that underlie it is crucial,\" Liang shared in one of his rare interviews with Anyong, a sub-brand of China's tech media 36Kr. \"Even if there are no immediate commercial incentives, the pursuit of knowledge in this area can lead to breakthroughs that benefit all of society.\"
Liang's low-profile approach extends to his media presence as well, having granted interviews only to Anyong in 2023 and 2024. These discussions offer a rare glimpse into his vision for AI and his commitment to fostering innovation through foundational research.
Impact on the Global AI Landscape
DeepSeek's rapid rise and the success of the R1 model have not only challenged the status quo in AI technology but have also highlighted the growing influence of Chinese innovation on the global stage. The company's achievements raise questions about the future balance of technological power and the role of international collaboration in advancing AI.
As DeepSeek continues to push the boundaries of what's possible, the world watches with keen interest. Liang Wenfeng's unique blend of entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to long-term research exemplifies a new wave of leaders driving Asia's dynamic role in global affairs.
Reference(s):
Behind China's rising AI startup DeepSeek: Who is Liang Wenfeng?
cgtn.com
