Namhyuk Ahn

Research   My research vision is to establish a comprehensive Generative AI + X ecosystem that empowers a diverse spectrum of users, from domain experts to the general public. I strive to democratize the benefits of AI by extending them to under-resourced fields, thereby maximizing the societal utility of generative technologies. My work centers on three key pillars: (1) AX via Gen AI: Engineering domain-specific adaptations of foundation models for specialized sectors that necessitate high-fidelity, bespoke solutions, (2) Professional-Grade Gen AI Systems: Designing workflows that satisfy rigorous professional requirements through fine-grained controllability and steerability, and (3) Responsible Gen AI: Developing robust frameworks for data security, privacy protection, and ethical alignment to safeguard all stakeholders.

Previosuly   I was an AI researcher at NAVER WEBTOON. At NAVER WEBTOON, I researched Gen AI solutions for cartoon creators and artists aimed at enhancing their productivity, allowing them to focus more on creativity side (e.g. Cartooner, DreamStyler). I also developed fun and creative products with Gen AI (e.g. WebtoonMe). Additionally, I worked on mitigating the negative societal impacts of Gen AI, particularly by developing methods to prevent copyright infringement by these technologies to protect the intellectual properties of professional artists (e.g. Impasto).

Before joining NAVER WEBTOON, I received my Ph.D. from Ajou University in 2021, advised by Kyung-Ah Sohn, where I primarily focused on image enhancement and restoration (e.g. CARN, CutBlur). Prior to that, I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Media from Ajou University in 2016.