Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the journey and contributions of Zhu Songchun, a pioneer in general artificial intelligence (AGI) and a guiding figure for young scholars, emphasizing the importance of independent thinking and cultural confidence in the development of AI in China [1][4]. Group 1: Early Life and Education - Zhu Songchun was characterized as an inquisitive individual from a young age, embodying the spirit of a relentless questioner [2]. - He pursued his studies in the United States during a low period for artificial intelligence, focusing on foundational research in computer vision and pattern recognition [2][3]. - After returning to China, he established the Beijing Academy of General Artificial Intelligence, the only research institute in the country specifically named for AGI [2]. Group 2: Originality in AI Development - Zhu believes that the arrival of China's AI moment hinges on achieving originality in both technology and understanding of intelligence [4]. - He emphasizes that originality encompasses not just technological breakthroughs but also a new comprehension of the essence of intelligence [4][6]. Group 3: Innovative Concepts and Practices - His "hybrid architecture" concept integrates the advantages of large models in language and data processing with symbolic reasoning and intuitive responses, allowing AI to adapt better to unknown scenarios [6]. - Zhu's approach to AI development has been shaped by a commitment to data quality and task definition, advocating for "small data, big tasks" since 2009 [7]. Group 4: Cultural and Social Considerations - Zhu stresses the need for technological advancement to be complemented by cultural confidence, asserting that Chinese AI must embed independent values and worldviews [8][10]. - He envisions future AGI capable of social interaction and cultural understanding, reflecting a balance between technology and humanity [10][14]. Group 5: Achievements and Future Outlook - The Beijing Academy's team won the championship at the 2025 World Humanoid Robot Dance Competition, showcasing their expertise in embodied intelligence and human-robot interaction [13]. - Zhu believes that the emergence of AGI will mark a significant leap in intelligent technology, with China poised to make unique contributions to this field [13][14].