Editor's note: In the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence (AI), Liang Wenfeng and his creation, DeepSeek, are emerging as a transformative force. This article delves into the story behind DeepSeek, exploring the vision and journey of its founder, Liang Wenfeng.
An AI lab based in Hangzhou, eastern China's Zhejiang Province, has captured global attention with the release of its cutting-edge R1 model. Developed at a fraction of the cost of mainstream models like OpenAI's ChatGPT, DeepSeek's breakthrough has sparked discussions about the shifting dynamics in the AI industry.
Founded by hedge fund manager Liang Wenfeng, DeepSeek unveiled the R1 model last Monday, accompanied by a comprehensive paper detailing a novel approach to training large-scale reinforcement learning models without relying on supervised fine-tuning as a preliminary step. This innovation has not only impressed the tech community but also stirred conversations about the future of AI development.
Within days of its release, DeepSeek's application soared to the top of the iPhone free app charts in both China and the United States, surpassing established platforms like ChatGPT. The rapid ascent of DeepSeek has ignited debates in Silicon Valley regarding whether well-funded U.S. AI companies can sustain their technological lead in the face of emerging competitors from China.
Liang Wenfeng: The Visionary Behind DeepSeek
Liang Wenfeng graduated from Zhejiang University with a degree in Artificial Intelligence. In 2016, he co-founded the quantitative hedge fund High-Flyer, which quickly gained recognition for its innovative use of AI-driven trading strategies. By 2021, High-Flyer had fully integrated AI into its operations, utilizing machine learning models to predict market trends and make data-driven investment decisions.
In May 2023, Liang embarked on a new venture by establishing DeepSeek, focusing on advancing the field of artificial general intelligence (AGI). Unlike traditional for-profit enterprises, DeepSeek was conceived as a platform for long-term, fundamental research. Liang envisioned a space where curiosity-driven exploration could lead to meaningful advancements in AI, unencumbered by immediate commercial pressures.
Liang has maintained a low profile, granting interviews only to select media outlets. In these rare discussions, he emphasized that DeepSeek is more of a passion project, driven by a deep-seated curiosity and a commitment to foundational research. He believes that delving into complex fields like finance and AGI is crucial, even if immediate returns are not apparent.
His focus lies in understanding the essence of human intelligence and the underlying processes that drive it. Liang asserts that exploring these areas is essential for the progression of AI, as it addresses fundamental questions about cognition and learning.
A New Chapter in Global AI Development
The release of DeepSeek's R1 model has positioned the company at the forefront of AI innovation. It has also placed Liang Wenfeng in the spotlight, both in China and internationally. Last week, he was invited to a symposium in Beijing, where Chinese Premier Li Qiang sought insights from experts, entrepreneurs, and representatives across various sectors on a draft government work report.
DeepSeek's rise highlights the growing influence of China's tech industry on the global stage. As AI continues to transform industries worldwide, Liang Wenfeng's dedication to long-term, foundational research serves as an inspiration. His approach underscores the importance of innovation driven by curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge, rather than solely by commercial interests.
With DeepSeek challenging established norms and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in AI, the world watches with keen interest. The company's success may signal a shift in the global tech landscape, emphasizing the value of new perspectives and innovative methodologies in solving complex problems.
Reference(s):
Behind China's rising AI startup DeepSeek: Who is Liang Wenfeng?
cgtn.com
