MSIT Accelerates Future Growth with a Transition to a Pioneering R&D System
◇ The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) has announced a record-high budget of KRW 19 trillion for 2025.- The 2025 R&D budget represents a 16.1% increase compared to 2024, reaching KRW 9.7 trillion.- Key investments will focus on pioneering R&D, AI and digital innovation, core talent and basic research, and strategic international cooperation.◇ The government's total R&D budget for 2025 will rise by 11.8% compared to 2024, amounting to KRW 29.7 trillion.The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), led by Minister Yoo Sang-im, announced that the total budget for the ministry, as outlined in the 2025 government budget and fund management plan, has been set at KRW 19 trillion. This marks a 5.9% increase from the KRW 17.9 trillion allocated in 2024.Since last year, the MSIT has been working to eliminate accumulated inefficiencies in R&D and improve outdated regulations. Efforts have included abolishing preliminary feasibility studies for R&D projects to allow for faster responses to technological changes, introducing support systems for innovative and ambitious R&D, and pushing for improvements in international R&D cooperation frameworks.For this overhaul of the R&D system, the MSIT has allocated KRW 9.7 trillion for R&D in 2025, a 16.1% increase compared to the KRW 8.4 trillion in 2024. This figure surpasses the KRW 9.1 trillion allocated in 2023 before any budget cuts, marking a 6.5% increase. This strategic expansion of investment is not just a restoration to previous budget levels but a targeted increase to accelerate the nation's future growth through a shift to pioneering R&D.[MSIT's Key Investment Areas]In 2025, the MSIT’s primary focus areas for investment, based on the restructured R&D system, are as follows:1. Supporting Pioneering R&D: KRW 3.64 trillion in 2024 → KRW 4.32 trillion in 2025To transition from a catch-up strategy to a pioneering R&D approach, the MSIT will allocate KRW 4.32 trillion, or 44% of its 2025 R&D budget, to this area. The primary focus will be on securing international leadership in three key “game-changing” technologies: artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors, advanced biotechnology, and quantum technology.In the AI field, efforts will focus on overcoming the limitations of generative AI by developing next-generation technologies and supporting innovations across the AI-semiconductor value chain. In biotechnology, the ministry will back innovations in gene regulation, gene editing, new drug development, and refractory cancer diagnostics, as well as the establishment of biotech foundries. For quantum technology, initiatives will include promoting mission-oriented projects, securing leading technologies based on international collaborations, and commercializing quantum sensors.Development of Pioneering AI-Semiconductor-Based Data Center Technologies:KRW 7.5 billion in 2024 → KRW 10 billion in 2025Development of Biotechnology and Medical Technology:KRW 304.3 billion in 2024 → KRW 368.4 billion in 2025Development and Commercialization of Quantum Sensor Technology:KRW 7.7 billion in 2024 → KRW 13.8 billion in 2025Development of Cloud-based Resource Sharing Technologies (K-Cloud) Using AI Semiconductors:KRW 37 billion in 2025 (new)Flagship Quantum Science and Technology Projects:KRW 25.2 billion in 2025 (new)Additionally, investments will be expanded in "innovative and ambitious R&D" projects. These are high-risk, high-reward initiatives that, although they have a high possibility of failure, have the potential to create significant breakthroughs if successful. The ministry plans to break away from the traditional management system and focus on supporting projects that are driven by responsible project managers who define challenging problems and pursue innovative approaches.Breakthrough R&D Projects:KRW 10 billion in 2024 → KRW 11.7 billion in 2025Development of Pioneering Digital Innovation Technologies:KRW 10 billion in 2024 → KRW 11.6 billion in 2025Innovative Small Modular Reactors:KRW 27.4 billion in 2024 → KRW 53 billion in 2025Development of Van der Waals Materials and Process Technology for ULSI Semiconductors:KRW 4 billion in 2025 (new)The ministry will also continue investing in key national strategic sectors such as next-generation nuclear power, advanced mobility, and hydrogen to secure technological leadership. Investments will also be increased for future energy sources, including nuclear fusion and renewable energy.Development of Key Technologies for Safe Storage and Disposal of Spent Nuclear Fuel:KRW 19.4 billion in 2024 → KRW 21.4 billion in 2025Hydrogen Technology Independence Project:KRW 3.4 billion in 2024 → KRW 10.3 billion in 2025Development of Key Technologies for Carbon-Free Energy:KRW 5.7 billion in 2025 (new)A budget of KRW 183.3 billion, a significant 83% increase from 2024, will be allocated to government-funded research institutes to support “Global Top” strategic research groups. This group will break down barriers between research institutes and play a pivotal role in leading R&D. Additionally, the MSIT will strengthen interdisciplinary research efforts among two or more research institutes to develop technologies that directly benefit the public, such as urban flood response technologies and building safety inspection systems.Support for “Global Top” Strategic Research Groups:KRW 100 billion in 2024 → KRW 183.3 billion in 2025Development of Urban Flood Response Technology (Joint Project of KICT KRRI, KIGAM and ETRI):KRW 8.4 billion in 2025 (new)Development of Vaccines and Therapeutics for Emerging Infectious Diseases (Joint Project of KRIBB and KRICT):KRW 8 billion in 2025 (new)Upcycling of Food Waste to Polymer Resources (Joint Project of KFRI, WIKIM, and KIOM)KRW 4 billion in 2025 (new)Digitalization of Safety Inspections for Buildings and Bridges (Joint Project of KICT and KRISS):KRW 6.8 billion in 2025 (new)Development of Ultra-High-Density Semiconductor Stacking Technology (Joint Project of KITECH and KIMM)KRW 6.4 billion in 2025 (new)2. AI and Digital Innovation:KRW 0.84 trillion in 2024 → KRW 0.88 trillion in 2025The MSIT plans to boost productivity across industries and create quality jobs by expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) throughout society, ultimately improving the quality of life for citizens. Investments will be directed toward applying AI to industries such as manufacturing, finance, and logistics to create new markets, as well as identifying and commercializing AI-convergence services in collaboration with other government ministries. As a follow-up to the AI Seoul Summit 2024, the MSIT will expand support for leading global initiatives such as establishing AI safety research centers to play a pivotal role in shaping the international AI and digital order.Support for AI Semiconductor Demonstration:KRW 18.8 billion in 2024 → KRW 24.4 billion in 2025K-CareNetwork Based on Digital Innovation Technology:KRW 4 billion in 2024 → KRW 6 billion in 2025Establishing a Foundation for Digital Order and Supporting International Expansion (including the Operation of the AI Safety Research Center):KRW 3.8 billion in 2024 → KRW 5.8 billion in 2025AI Innovation Fund:KRW 45 billion in 2025 (new)Support for Sustainable Data Center Industry:KRW 9.5 billion in 2025 (new)The MSIT will also strengthen investments in creating a safe and inclusive AI and digital environment for citizens. This includes permanently operating digital education centers nationwide and establishing an AI-based intelligent information security system to combat increasingly covert and sophisticated cyber threats.Promoting Use of Encryption:KRW 700 million in 2024 → KRW 3.9 billion in 2025Open-RAN Testbed Establishment:KRW 1 billion in 2024 → KRW 3.9 billion in 2025Applying and Expanding Secure Software Supply Chain Management System:KRW 6 billion in 2025 (new)3. Fostering Core Talent and Expanding Basic Research:KRW 3.21 trillion in 2024 → KRW 3.57 trillion in 2025The MSIT will focus on nurturing talent to lead Korea’s future by creating a stable research environment and enhancing AI and digital education. This includes supporting core talent in emerging technologies. In particular, the ministry plans to introduce a stipend program for graduate students in STEM fields, ensuring they can fully dedicate themselves to their research.Science and Technology Innovation Talent Development:KRW 52.1 billion in 2024 → KRW 59.9 billion in 2025ICT Broadcasting Innovation Talent Development:KRW 105.4 billion in 2024 → KRW 130.4 billion in 2025Graduate Student Stipend for STEM Fields:KRW 60 billion in 2025 (new)Support for AI Fellowship Program:KRW 6 billion in 2025 (new)Training for Future International Nuclear Power Specialists:KRW 2 billion in 2025 (new)The MSIT will allocate its largest-ever budget for basic research, which serves as the foundation for innovation. New initiatives will support pioneering research in emerging fields, while follow-up studies by high-performing researchers will receive expanded support. Additionally, a new "National Agenda Basic Research" initiative will be introduced, offering strategic "middle-up" support for basic research that aligns with government policies and societal needs.Support for Individual Basic Research:KRW 1.6982 trillion in 2024 → KRW 1.9108 trillion in 2025Support for Collaborative Research Initiatives:KRW 419.7 billion in 2024 → KRW 430.4 billion in 20254. Strengthening Strategic International Cooperation:KRW 1.13 trillion in 2024 → KRW 1.25 trillion in 2025To respond to the global competition for technological supremacy and expand Korea's role in the international scientific community, investments in international scientific and technological cooperation will continue to increase. First, international joint research with leading advanced countries will be actively pursued. The scale of ongoing international joint research projects in the three key transformative areas (game-changers) – artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum technology – as well as in the semiconductor and materials sectors, will be expanded. Additionally, new international joint research initiatives will be launched in the field of carbon neutrality. Furthermore, Korea will officially participate in Horizon Europe, the world's largest multilateral research and innovation program, following the successful conclusion of negotiations for associate membership in March this year, and efforts will be made to encourage the participation of Korean researchers.Digital Biotechnology Development:KRW 15 billion in 2024 → KRW 28.3 billion in 2025International Joint Research in Semiconductors and Displays:KRW 3.41 billion in 2024 → KRW 7.39 billion in 2025International Joint Research in Digital Innovation Technology:KRW 2.93 billion in 2024 → KRW 6.46 billion in 2025AI Research Hub Establishment:KRW 4 billion in 2024 → KRW 10 billion in 2025Strengthening International Cooperation in Quantum Technology:KRW 7.78 billion in 2024 → KRW 16.6 billion in 2025Connecting Global Young Researchers in Materials Science:KRW 7.875 billion in 2024 → KRW 15.9 billion in 2025International C.L.E.A.N. (Climate, Energy, and Environment Action Network):KRW 4.03 billion in 2025 (new)The MSIT will also bolster the foundation for international science and technology cooperation. Taking advantage of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit to be held in South Korea next November, a pilot program supporting exchanges between scientists from countries within the Asia-Pacific region will be launched. The role of international science and technology cooperation hubs will be enhanced by providing support for overseas information gathering and networking. Furthermore, collaboration with the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and research development zones in Korea will be expanded to support overseas expansion for researchers and tech companies.Building Foundations for International Cooperation:KRW 24 billion in 2024 → KRW 38.1 billion in 2025APEC Scientist Exchange Expansion:KRW 2.55 billion in 2025 (new)International Boost-Up Project:KRW 5 billion in 2025 (new)[2025 Government R&D Budget: KRW 29.7 Trillion]Meanwhile, the total government R&D budget for 2025 will amount to KRW 29.7 trillion, an 11.8% increase from 2024 (KRW 26.5 trillion), marking a record high. Given that the overall government expenditure is expected to rise by only 3.2%, this indicates a significant increase in the R&D sector compared to other fields.The key areas for the government's R&D investments in 2025 are as follows:1. Driving National Innovation through Game-Changing Technologies and Innovative and Ambitious R&DThe government will expand strategic investments to achieve G3 status by 2030 in three key game-changing technologies: AI-semiconductors, advanced biotechnology, and quantum technology. Additionally, KRW 1 trillion will be allocated to support innovative and ambitious R&D activities, fostering a dynamic research environment.Three Game-Changing Technologies:KRW 2.7 trillion in 2024 → KRW 3.5 trillion in 2025Innovative and Ambitious R&D:KRW 0.7 trillion in 2024 → KRW 1 trillion in 20252. Building a Pioneering R&D EcosystemThe government plans to deliver unprecedented support for basic research, fostering a diverse and resilient domestic R&D ecosystem. A new stipend program will be introduced to create a stable research environment for full-time graduate students, while international cooperation will be enhanced through participation in global initiatives like Horizon Europe.Basic Research:KRW 2.6 trillion in 2024 → KRW 2.9 trillion in 2025Talent Development:KRW 0.8 trillion in 2024 → KRW 1 trillion in 2025International R&D:KRW 1.8 trillion in 2024 → KRW 2.2 trillion in 20253. Supporting Cutting-Edge Technologies for Dynamic Economic GrowthThe government will increase investments in technology development to secure a 'super gap' in key advanced industries, such as semiconductors, displays, and secondary batteries, while also supporting emerging growth sectors like space exploration and next-generation nuclear power. Corporate R&D will be supported in scaling up technologies and commercializing core technologies. Additionally, by diversifying funding methods, such as integrating investments with loans, the government aims to accelerate innovation in companies with strong capabilities and help them achieve self-sustainability.Cutting-Edge Technologies:KRW 2 trillion in 2024 → KRW 2.4 trillion in 2025Technology Sovereignty and New Growth Engine:KRW 2.9 trillion in 2024 → KRW 3.3 trillion in 2025Corporate Innovation Ladder:KRW 1.3 trillion in 2024 → KRW 1.4 trillion in 20254. Science and Technology for National SafetyIn the defense sector, investments will focus on enhancing the competitiveness of defense technologies and strengthening collaborations between civilian and military sectors. The government will also enhance R&D for disaster response and safety to address emerging threats, such as digital crimes and large-scale industrial accidents.Defense:KRW 2.9 trillion in 2024 → KRW 3.1 trillion in 2025Disaster-response and Safety:KRW 1.9 trillion in 2024 → KRW 2.1 trillion in 2025The 2025 budget proposal, including the fund management plan, was approved by the Cabinet on August 27th and will be sent to the National Assembly on September 2nd. During the regular National Assembly session, the standing committees will conduct a preliminary review, followed by a full-scale review by the Budget Committee. The final budget will be determined after amendments and a vote in the plenary session.Minister Yoo Sang-im stated, "The 2025 budget proposal for the MSIT prioritizes key investments in areas critical for the transition to pioneering R&D, building on last year’s structural improvements. We will make bold investments in promising technologies that are challenging for the private sector to develop, and nurture the core talent that is the foundation of national competitiveness. Next year will mark the start of Korea's leap into the future."For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: 82-44-202-4034, E-mail: [email protected]) of the Ministry of Science and ICT. Plaese refer to the attached PDF.
MSIT, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, promotes the training of specialized S&T diplomacy personnel.
- MSIT opens the 2024 Science and Technology Diplomacy Academy with two directors from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as lecturers, strengthening inter-ministerial cooperation. - Online/offline training courses offered for participants from the science and technology industry, academia, and research sectors involved in international cooperation. The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) announced that it will hold the 2024 Science and Technology Diplomacy Academy starting August 28. The academy is an online/offline educational program launched in 2021 by collaboration of MSIT, the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP), and the National Research Foundation (NRF) of Korea. The program provides training on technology cooperation strategies, science and technology diplomacy policies, international trends, and practical skills for international cooperation for participants involved in international cooperation from companies, universities, and research institutes. The lecturers of the academy include experts on international cooperation systems, projects, and policies. This year, leveraging the strengthened inter-ministerial cooperation, following the joint hosting of the AI Seoul Summit by MSIT and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), directors from MOFA’s Treaty Division and International Science and Technology Norms Division will give lectures on the overview of international agreements, the process of their conclusion, and global technical standards. Lee Jun-Hee, Director of the International Science and Technology Norms Division at MOFA, emphasized, "The international community is rapidly advancing in establishing governance and norms for key emerging technologies, which are directly related to national security and international competitiveness." He added, "We plan to deepen cooperation between the two ministries to train the specialized personnel needed for science and technology diplomacy as Korea advances as a global leader." Hwang Sung-Hoon, Director General for the International Cooperation Bureau at MSIT, also emphasized, "As the competition for technological supremacy intensifies and international joint research in science and technology becomes more active, the importance of training personnel to drive this is greater than ever." He added, "MSIT and MOFA will closely cooperate to foster and utilize science and technology diplomacy personnel who will lead the globalization of Korean science and technology." For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: 82-44-202-4034, E-mail: [email protected]) of the Ministry of Science and ICT. Please refer to the attached PDF.
MSIT Unveils First Master Plan for Developing Critical and Emerging Technologies (2024-2028): A Blueprint for National S&T Sovereignty
- Aiming for national S&T sovereignty and global leadership in 12 Critical and Emerging Technologies (CETs), with plans to expand current leading positions from 3 areas to 6 - Investing over KRW 30 trillion over the next five years in 12 CETs ― such as AI, semiconductors, advanced biotechnology, and quantum technologies ― with flagship projects to support rapid commercialization - Significantly enhancing technological security capabilities through robust strategic technology partnerships with like-minded countries and capturing the golden time for emerging technologies The Ministry of Science and ICT (“MSIT”; Minister Yoo Sang-Im) announced the First Master Plan for Developing Critical and Emerging Technologies (2024-2028): A Blueprint for National S&T Sovereignty on August 26 (Monday) at the Deliberative Council Meeting of the Presidential Advisory Council on Science and Technology (PACST). In 2022, during the Plenary Council of PACST chaired by President Yoon Suk Yeol, the Korean government identified 12 CETs* and 50 key technologies crucial for securing supply chains, emerging industries, foreign affairs, and national security. The government has since concentrated its R&D investments and policy support on these technologies. * The 12 CETs are ① Semiconductor and display, ② secondary cell, ③ advanced mobility, ④ next-gen nuclear power, ⑤ advanced biotechnology, ⑥ aerospace and marine technology, ⑦ hydrogen, ⑧ cyber security, ⑨ AI, ⑩ next-gen communications, ⑪ advanced robotics and manufacturing, ⑫ quantum technology. The First Master Plan ― a five-year strategy outlining the mid- to long-term outlook and policy direction for the development of 12 CETs ― is the culmination of comprehensive efforts across the government. Developed collaboratively by 22 government ministries, offices, and agencies in accordance with Article 5 of the Special Act on the Fostering of Critical and Emerging Technologies, this plan represents a unified approach to advancing national technological capabilities. Named the Blueprint for National S&T Sovereignty, the plan focuses on three major policy tasks designed to propel and leapfrog the country beyond mere national survival. It also details key policy directions for each of the 12 CETs, aiming to position Korea at the forefront of global technological competition and enhance national capabilities. The main components of the First Master Plan are as follows: Background and Outlook As the OECD pointed out that there is a growing “securitization of STI policy,” the competition for technological dominance has become a new normal in the global arena of science and technology. In particular, the formation of technology blocs is growing and strengthening among like-minded countries focusing on critical and emerging technologies such as semiconductors, AI, and advanced biotechnology. Concurrently, the quest for science and technology sovereignty, grounded in world-leading technological capabilities, is increasingly viewed as essential for driving national growth. With the enactment of the Special Act on the Fostering of Critical and Emerging Technologies and the establishment of the First Master Plan, the government has laid out a national innovation strategy centered around CETs. This is expected to contribute to Korea securing next-generation technologies and enable the country to advance through private sector-led technological innovation. The focus is on incorporating a wide range of poilcy mix, including not only government research and development but also the promotion of technology commercialization, strengthening international cooperation, strategic investment in mission-oriented projects, performance management, and public-private collaboration. The masterplan sets forth three main objectives under the vision of "A Nation of Science and Technology Sovereignty, Armed with Unrivaled 'Super-Gap' Technology": i) comprehensive support for the swift commercialization of the CETs, ii) significant enhancement of proactive measures for technology security, and iii) innovation in mission-oriented research and development. [Task 1 – Future growth engines] Concentrated support for swift commercialization of the CETs ➊ (Expanding R&D linked to commercialization) R&D in the 12 CETs will receive more than KRW 30 trillion in support over the next five years, centered primarily on private demand. Investment in the three 'game-changer' fields will be significantly increased. To achieve tangible results, 10 CET projects with a cumulative value of KRW 3 trillion (based on preliminary feasibility studies) will be actively pursued. Additionally, the Ministry will identify new Flagship 2.0 projects in key R&D areas that lack sufficient research, such as advanced robotics, manufacturing and hydrogen. * For the three key game-changer fields, support will be increased to KRW 3.4 trillion in 2025 from KRW 2.8 trillion in 2024 (24% y-o-y growth, data from the PACST draft plan) As for R&D support for small and medium-sized enterprises, over 50% of new project funding will be allocated to key areas within the 12 CETs. There will also be a focus on strengthening public-private partnerships to foster the growth of highly advanced, strategic technology-based startups, along with providing funding support through the fund of funds. ➋ (Blockbuster Innovation Groups & Support for demonstrations) In accordance with the Special Act on the CETs, the Ministry will focus on identifying and supporting the BIG 100: Blockbuster Innovation Groups. Specialized research institutes will be established to lead mission-oriented research and commercialization of CETs, along with specialized training institutions to nurture innovative talent. Additionally, regional technology innovation centers will be developed in connection with balanced regional development efforts. To quickly transfer research outcomes in the CET areas, support will also be provided for the advancement of leading universities and corporate research institutes. ➌ (Improving Business-Friendly Policies for the CETs) Following this year's introduction of the "super-gap special listing procedure" for qualified companies officially recognized for possessing specific CET-related technologies, the government will expand growth support measures. This includes enhanced policy financing from relevant ministries and increased public procurement of innovative products. Multiple ministries will collaborate to enhance policies that are tangible and beneficial for businesses. This includes providing tax benefits and patent acquisition support for CET-related companies, as well as implementing proactive regulatory innovations for promising strategic technologies in a phased manner. ➍ (Customized Talent Development) Recognizing that talent is a valuable asset for industries, Korea will strengthen talent development programs, including specialized graduate schools in the CET fields and initiatives to enhance the skills of current employees. Data-driven talent policies will be implemented, utilizing workforce maps and job posting data to analyze job positions, as well as integrating researcher information with employment databases. Efforts will be intensified to make Korea a "melting pot" for global expertise by attracting top international talent and implementing measures to prevent the outflow of exceptional domestic talent. [Task 2 – Technological Security Powerhouse] Significantly bolster proactive response capabilities in technological security ➊ (Robust strategic technology cooperation with like-minded countries) Strengthen cooperation with like-minded partners such as the U.S., Japan, and the EU in all aspects of research, legislation, and security to solidify technological security. Actively respond to the formation of technology blocs through mechanisms such as the Dialogue on CETs and the AI Summit, and advance Korea-led agendas and norms in international organizations and other science and technology arenas. In addition, based on the data analysis provided by the Global R&D Strategy Map, tailored cooperation strategies will be developed, taking into account the technological advantages of each partner country, the types of cooperation needed for key technologies, and the list of partner organizations. The Ministry will select and support international collaborative R&D projects in CETs that require significant investments. ➋ (Securing the golden opportunity for CETs) Korea will rapidly embark on an initiative to quickly identify, support, and secure strategic technologies that will be pivotal in the global tech race. Through inter-agency information sharing and AI modeling, an early analysis and forecasting system tailored to future technology supply chains will be established. This system will be utilized for assessing emerging technologies and predicting key countries' policies. To support rapid research and development, the Ministry will abolish the preliminary feasibility study system for R&D budgets, reduce the time required for deploying research equipment, and introduce greater flexibility for international R&D. At the same time, the Ministry will focus on securing cutting-edge future materials that support the CET initiatives. The CET support mechanism will be periodically updated in response to changes in the global race for technological dominance. Similar to the U.S. White House’s CET system*, Korea's CETs will be updated every two years based on data and public-private demand, following deliberations from the Presidential Advisory Council on Science and Technology (PACST). * (Example: U.S.' Critical and emerging technologies) Since the announcement of the National Strategy for Critical and Emerging Technologies in October 2020, the U.S. has updated the CET list twice. As of February 2024, the list now includes 122 technologies across 18 areas, from 103 technologies in 19 areas. ➌ (Strengthening technology protection and research security) In preparation for intensifying global competition for technological dominance, support for security management in research environments will be enhanced. Guidelines for strategic technology protection will be established for researchers, and research security systems will be strengthened to address data requests from foreign institutions and overseas research funding. ➍ (Investment and cooperation in dual-use technologies) Research and development for the selected 10 strategic defense technologies, structured around the 12 CETs, will receive concentrated support. In particular, cooperation between military and civilian research (spin-on/off) will be continuously strengthened to facilitate the rapid integration of strategic civilian technologies into defense systems and to leverage the outcomes of defense R&D. [Task 3 – Mission-oriented innovation] Establish a mission-centric R&D system to produce visible outcomes ➊ (Concentrated support for mission-oriented R&D) Projects directly linked to securing leading-edge technologies and maintaining competitiveness will be designated as Mission-Oriented Visionary Projects (MVPs) under the Special Act and will receive intensified support. These designated projects will benefit from broad support measures based on the Special Act on the CETs, including budget utilization, project agency designation, and alleviating corporate burdens. The Ministry plans to introduce the National Science & Technology Lab (NSTL), an open collaboration system designed to break down barriers between different research institutions. This initiative will be implemented starting this year, alongside the expansion of the designated Global Top Strategic Research Groups. * Mission-Oriented Visionary Projects (MVPs): Projects that are directly related to fostering CETs, which will receive mission-centric support and management. ➋ (Integrated performance management) A performance management system will be established to outline the key missions and timelines for achieving goals, based on the implementation plans developed by the relevant ministries* for each CET sector after delieration by the PACST. This system will conduct a comprehensive review that encompasses not only technology development and key project performance, but also talent development, international collaboration, and the need for institutional improvements to foster a thriving ecosystem. The results of this review will be linked to investments and evaluations. Additionally, the national R&D analysis and future projection systems will be integrated with the 12 CET sectors to improve the status, outcomes, and evidence-based policy development. * Mission-oriented, Strategic Roadmap for the Critical and Emerging Technologies (2023.8-2024.2, Special Committee on the CETs under the PACST) ➌ (Online platform for joint innovation through industry-academia-research institutes-government collaboration) Establish a coordination and collaboration system between high-level policy bodies (for the three game changer areas, space, etc.) such as the National Artificial Intelligence Committee and the Quantum Strategy Committee, and the Presidential Advisory Council on Science and Technology. This includes operating a policy collaboration system between industry, academia, and research institutes, including launching a CETs Innovation Forum to gather public views on advancing the technologies. In addition, efforts will be made to establish a K-Technology security think tank to lead discussions on issues related to the 12 CETs on the global stage. 12 CETs: Key Support Strategies by field The MSIT will provide tailored support for the 12 CETs-based on domestic technology advancement levels, categorizing them into leading fields, follow-up and competitive fields, and pioneering future fields. ▲ (Leading fields) In leading fields directly related to Korea's flagship industries, such as semiconductors and secondary cell, the focus will be on achieving top global technological leadership and maintaining a strong position in the international supply chain. To enhance technological superiority over competitor countries, the Ministry will support large-scale R&D initiatives conducted jointly by the public and private sectors. In response to increasing global regionalization, a proactive response system will be established that integrates diplomacy and security. Additionally, recognizing the importance of supply chain stabilization, the Ministry will provide strategic support for the domestic development of critical and emerging materials. ▲ (Catch-up & competitive fields) Korea is striving for global leadership in this category of fields such as AI, advanced biotechnology, and next-generation nuclear power. Efforts will will focus on accelerating the early commercialization of CETs supported by a robust research ecosystem. Given the close connection of these areas to digital and AI transformation, support will be provided to expand research infrastructure, including AI computing resources. Additionally, we will strengthen industrial linkage projects that act as a catalyst for the commercialization of foundational deep-tech technologies based on CETs. ▲ (Pioneering future fields) Korea aim for a "technology leap-frogging" in fields such as quantum technology, aerospace, marine, and hydrogen. The focus is on the public-sector-led innovative and frontier research projects and the formation of a "Blockbuster Innovation Group" which are expected to help quickly bridge the technology gap with leading countries. Given the high significance of these fields in international STI policies ― particularly in terms of diplomacy, security, and carbon neutrality ― the goal is to strengthen cooperation with like-minded countries and active engagement in multilateral cooperation mechanisms to secure technological sovereignty. Goals and Objectives Through these efforts, Korea aims to expand its world-leading technological capacities in the 12 CETs, from the current 3 leading areas to 6, and produce 15 new unicorn companies based on the CETs to drive the country's future growth. In particular, the government has set a goal to maintain Korea's top position in technology competitiveness within its flagship industries―memory chips, secondary cell, and next-generation displays. Additionally, Korea is striving to propel itself into the top three global leaders (G3) in three transformative technological fields: AI chips, advanced biotechnology, and quantum technologies. Minister Yoo Sang-Im said, "To gain a significant lead in the global market, it is essential for Korea to secure its scientific and technological sovereignty through the advancement of the 12 CETs." He added, "In line with the name 'A Blueprint for National S&T Sovereignty,' my Ministry will collaborate with other government ministries, academia, industry, and research institutes to diligently implement the policy tasks outlined in the First Master Plan for Developing Critical and Emerging Technologies. This initiative will not only enable Korea to stay relevant in the global tech race but also allow a pivotal step forward in securing future growth engines and technological security capabilities." For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: 82-44-202-4034, E-mail: [email protected]) of the Ministry of Science and ICT. Please refer to the attached PDF.
Call for Application for the ASEAN-ROK Award for Excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation 2023
The Government of Republic of Korea (ROK), in support of Science and Technology Policy Institute (STEPI), and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) recognize the importance of science, technology and innovation in promoting the economic development of nations. To this effect, an annual award is established to encourage young scientists and engineers to take on research in science, technology and innovation. The ASEAN-ROK Award for Excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation recognizes the academic and professional achievements of promising, early-career scientists and engineers of ASEAN nationality. The Award is open to professionals pursuing careers in any field of natural sciences or engineering. Eligibility This year, the award features two distinctions. 1) Next ASEAN Innovator: an applicant mustbe a citizen of an ASEAN Member State; andbe a professional with less than 5 years* of working experience after earning a Ph.D.;have no record in the past two years** of receiving an award organized or supported by ASEAN, in the field of science and engineering 2) ASEAN-ROK STI Pioneer: an applicant mustbe a citizen of an ASEAN Member State; andbe currently enrolled in a doctoral program in Korea; orbe a professional whose completion of a doctoral program in Korea is less than 5 years*; orbe a professional whose completion of a doctoral program is less than 5 years* and has significant research collaboration experience (e.g. post-doctoral programme, etc.) with Korea; have no record in the past two years** of receiving an award organized or supported by ASEAN, in the field of science and engineering * 01 Jan 2018, ** 01 Jan 2021 AwardThe winner of each distinction will be awarded a cash prize of US $12,000. The winners are also invited to attend the by-nomination annual one-week ASEAN-ROK STI Training Programme held in Seoul, Republic of Korea, to present and share their work. During the closing ceremony of the Programme, the Minister of Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) of ROK will present the winners of the ASEAN-ROK Award for Excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation with their Award.Application Process Applicant must submit the Application Form, Personal Statement, and Recommendation Letter, complete in every respect with the supporting documents, to STEPI ([email protected]) the latest by 14 August 2023.For Further Information Please refer to the following online posts for details, including application guidelines, application form, personal statement form and recommendation letter form.Should you have any further inquiries regarding the award, please contact STEPI, [email protected] link: https://bit.ly/5th_aseanrokaward2023
Information Brochure on the MSIT
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Information Brochure on the MSIT
Cutting-edge technology revolutionising the future of agriculture: Introducing smart farms
The source of the article above is "ICT Industry Hot Clips " Vol. 98 of the Korea (Link : https://www.kca.kr/hot_clips/vol98/sub02.html?lang=en) Please refer to the attached PDF.
Characters come to life with your voice : The future of AI conversational technology
The source of the article above is "ICT Industry Hot Clips " Vol. 97 of the Korea (Link : https://www.kca.kr/hot_clips/vol97/sub01.html?lang=en) Please refer to the attached PDF.
Responding to Business Cyber Threats with eXtened Threat Intelligence (XTI)
The source of the article above is "ICT Industry Hot Clips " Vol. 95 of the Korea CommunicationsAgency. (Link : https://www.kca.kr/hot_clips/vol95/sub01.html?lang=en) Please refer to the attached PDF.